Cars over five years old are given an MOT-style check quarterly compared to once a year in Huddersfield, twice a year in Bradford and three times in Leeds.

Each test costs £52.50 rising to £59.85 next month, which represents a sizeable chunk of cash for both fleet and individual operators of the district's 1,277 vehicles.

So it is hardly surprising that some operators are unhappy and want the system relaxed.

However when you learn that one in three of these vehicles fails the test, which is carried out on behalf of Calderdale Council, it puts a different complexion on the issue altogether.

Like many transport businesses, those who ferry people around find themselves under the cosh for a variety of reasons.

Not least the hikes in fuel prices and the inflated overall cost of maintaining vehicles. In some operators' eyes these tests simply add to an intolerable burden.

But the question of public safety is paramount in this case. People need to know that when they climb into a licensed taxi or hire car that it is fit for use and they are not being placed in danger.

There can be few people who, at some time or another, have hailed a cab and doubted its road-worthiness.

What happens in surrounding areas is immaterial, especially when such a large chunk of Calderdale vehicles are failing to meet the mark.

It is difficult though not to feel sorry for operators whose vehicles are kept in tip-top shape.

However on occasions the end justifies the means. And in this case there is no argument powerful enough to change the status quo.