Council Policies challenged
The Royal Courts of Justice have allowed a judicial review (JR) of the policies of Gloucester and Canterbury Councils. The request for a JR was brought to the Courts by the British Beer & Pub Association, the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers and the BII because of concerns over the content of the policy. The JR will seek to determine the lawfulness of certain demands which the trio consider unnecessary. We can expect an answer from the Court around the end of June.
Committee coaching and assessment
LGS.uk has completed a number of coaching/assessments of Licensing Committees. Following a recent session at Chelmsford Borough Council, Dawn French the Environmental Services Manager stated “To test our Committees understanding of the law, and our procedure, we engaged LGS.uk to assist with 2 mock hearings. As well as formal instruction Ian Webster coached Councillors on the various techniques for questioning and provided them with personal feedback. The sessions proved invaluable with Members commenting that they felt much more comfortable with their role in the process”
Drinking Responsibly
The Government has issued proposals on “Drinking Responsibly” following a number of issued identified in the “Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy for England”. The proposals include “Alcohol Disorder Zones”, “Drinking Banning Orders” and “Fixed Penalty Notices” for a range of minor offences relating to alcohol and disorder. You can view the proposals online at: www.homeoffice.gov.uk/inside/consults/current/index.html
Personal Licences
The Government has announced the first 2 personal licence qualifications under the 2003 Act. They are:
-
BIIAB Level 2 National Certificate for Personal Licence Holders.
www.bii.org
-
Existing holders of a liquor licence ARE NOT required to complete either of these courses and they can obtain a new personal licence through LGS.uk for £88 (including ALL Council charges).
DCMS Steering Group
The DCMS has set up a steering group to ensure a smooth transition to the new licensing system. Richard Caborn the Minister responsible for Licensing chairs the meeting which includes Councils, the Police and the trade. The Minister stated “As with all new legislation, it will take time to bed in. But everyone around the table is determined to work together to make the process as smooth as possible. This group will be a safety net which will pick up any difficulties during implementation and will act quickly and decisively to resolve them.”