Lamport Bassitt Solicitors - Legal News - Licensing laws to go local


	LATEST LATEST LEGAL NEWS ARCHIVE		LATEST NEWS & EVENTS Licensing laws to go local Licensing laws are to undergo a major shakeup as part of sweeping changes announced by the Home Office to devolve more power to local communities. The police reform and social responsibility bill is intended to "rebalance" the Licensing Act to give the public greater say over decisions that affect them. Local authorities and residents are to be given more influence over alcohol licensing to tackle problem premises. They will have greater power to restrict pubs and clubs selling alcohol late at night if necessary and be able to come down harder on premises that sell to children, with the fine for this offence doubling to £20,000. In addition, all residents will be able to comment on liquor licence applications, not just those who live close to the premises. Finally, councils will be able to introduce a tax on late-night licences to pay for extra policing. These reforms are part of the coalition government's stated aims on alcohol, which also include plans to ban the sale of alcohol below cost price. Posted by Gaby Hamerton Related Articles: 3/12/2010 - Licensing laws to go local 1/12/2010 - Licensing body waives charges for small B&Bs 11/11/2010 - Will Scots law affect liquor licence rules in England? 30/9/2010 - OFT addresses debt management issues 23/4/2009 - Landlords in Oldham may take legal action over licensing laws More Licensing Law News