This snapshot taken on 12/05/2010, shows web content selected for preservation by The National Archives. External links, forms and search boxes may not work in archived websites.

Government Publishes Draft Guidance To Help Local Authorities With New Licensing Laws

The Government has today issued the first draft of guidance, which will help local authorities deliver radical reforms of England and Wales' archaic licensing laws.


 


The draft guidance has been published to aid debate about the Licensing Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.


After consultation, in its final form, the guidance will help licensing authorities deliver their duties under the Bill. It will be flexible enough to allow them to develop their policies to take into account particular local circumstances. Over time it is expected to develop further following input from stakeholders and Parliament.


The guidance will also help licensees see very easily what is required of them in applying for a premises licence and it will encourage consistency in how the Bill is implemented across the country.


In a statement to Parliament issued today, Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell said:


"The Guidance is a crucial mechanism for enabling the Government to promote consistency and best practice and to respond to developments which may arise from time to time in connection with the sale of alcohol or the provision of regulated entertainment and late night refreshment. "


She stressed that the guidance would be subject to change and further development following consultation with Parliament, stakeholders and other Government departments and agencies.


It is also hoped that the draft guidance will help allay some of the largely unfounded fears that some groups have had about the conditions that licensing authorities might attach to licences, particularly in relation to live music.


 
Notes to editors


1. Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell announced the draft guidance in a written statement today. The text of the statement is included at Annex A


2.  The Licensing Bill sets our four clear licensing objectives:

  • The prevention of crime and disorder.
  • Public safety.
  • The prevention of public nuisance.
  • The protection of children from harm.

Press Enquiries: 020 7211 6052/6277
Out of hours telephone pager no: 07699 751153
Public Enquiries: 020 7211 6200

Back to main

Next >
< Prev

Back to top