Just saw the article about London Black cab drivers being taught new
skills including when to give their fares quiet space. Head of taxi
regulation, Mr Mason told the FT: "It's a world-renowned service. The
drivers are always perceived to be some of the great characters you come
across in London.”

I beg to disagree. Characters, yes. But not greatest. I have a huge beef
with London cabbies. They are rude drivers. I used to think they have
eye problems until I found that they brake and give way to their own,
but not to pedestrians, even when the pedestrian is in the right (or in
danger of being knocked down).

I take cabs when I need them. But, you know, I'd *support* them if they
would learn to be more gentle, careful drivers. It's a crowded city, the
Black Cabbies are not the kings of the road and should not act that way.