Why are the taxi drivers in Jerusalem offered English courses?

The city of Jerusalem is providing English lessons for its taxi drivers, so they can speak more freely with foreign tourists and improve customer service, it seems.
    Drivers will learn to give directions and answer questions about cultural heritage, on the 60-hour course. Mayor Nir Barkat says: "Everywhere in the world, the first people to be asked about a city and what’s worthwhile doing there are the taxi drivers... That’s why we’ve decided to fund their English studies." The courses will be held in groups of 10 and cost 17 pounds, with special focus given to correct pronunciation of tourist attractions.