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Policy change
* The Government has given itself powers
to change the First Appointed Day if necessary.
The industry is awaiting publication of secondary
legislation which the Government has announced will be issued
for public consultation in August/September. The consultation
period will be 2-3 months. Draft regulations will cover: hearings,
personal licences, premises licences (including application
forms, plans), club premises certificates, transitional arrangements,
temporary event notices and fees.
Licensing authorities have a six month period
from 7th July to prepare for transition during which time
they must prepare, consult on and publish local licensing
policy statements. The guidance requires licensing authorities
to promote the four licensing objectives of the Act:
· Prevention
of crime and disorder
· Public
Safety
· Prevention of
public nuisance
· The protection
of children from harm
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Licensing authorities are required to consult
the police, fire authority, local businesses and residents,
and other interested parties about their licensing policy
statements
The Licensing Act 2003 received Royal Assent
on 10 July 2003 and provides for, amongst other things:
· The amalgamation of six existing
licensing regimes (alcohol, public entertainment, cinemas,
theatres, late night refreshment house and night cafe)
· A single integrated scheme for licensing
premises which sell or supply alcohol, provide regulated entertainment
to the public or provide refreshment late at night.
· Premises licence to incorporate licensing
conditions necessary for the promotion of the licensing objectives.
· A new system of personal licences
in relation to the sale or supply of alcohol for consumption
on or off any premises in respect of which there is a premises
licence authorising such sale or supply.
· Personal licences to have effect
for 10 years and personal licence holders to pass a test of
knowledge of licensing law and social responsibilities
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