We are keeping an eye on the impact of the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Bill.
This follows the Home Office consultation on "rebalancing" the 2003 Licensing Act (England and Wales). The Bill makes a number of changes to the roles of local authorities - one of the biggest impacts for hospitality operators is that it will give Councils the right (but will not compel them) to the following:-
IMPOSE EARLY MORNING ALCOHOL RESTRICTION ORDERS:
These can prohibit the supply of alcohol on/from licensed premises (including clubs) at any time the Council chooses between midnight and 6.00am.
Additionally, and relating to the same hours, Councils will be permitted (again, not compelled) to:-
CHARGE A LATE NIGHT LEVY
Intended to cover policing and other costs to reduce or prevent crime and disorder linked to the supply of alcohol at times when there is no restriction order applying. Restriction orders and the levy change can be limited in terms of :-
(a) the locality covered, and
(b) whether to exempt any types of premises
As nearly 60% of "24 hour licences" are held by hotels, these are potentially important exceptions.
Most notably - and of concern - is that these powers will be at the discretion of each local Council.
