New licensing laws for England and Wales get go-ahead

The modernisation of England and Wales' licensing laws has been given the go-ahead by Parliament – paving the way for extended and varying closing times at bars, clubs and restaurants.

Contained in the bill are clauses to create flexible opening hours to allow greater freedom and choice while helping minimise public disorder resulting from artificially fixed closing times.

Tough measures to tackle alcohol-related crime and disorder are also set out – including new police powers to close licensed premises without notice for up to 24 hours where disorder is occurring, in order to protect the public and prevent further disorder.

Strengthened protection for children and a greater say for the public in the licensing process will be granted.

Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell said: "This Bill will give the responsible majority of people more freedom and choice about how they spend their leisure time. It replaces an out-of-date, mish-mash of legislation with a modern, accessible regime, responsive to the society it serves.

"It balances liberalisation and deregulation with new levels of protection for local residents and communities."

Having been approved by both Houses of Parliament, the Licensing Bill will now go forward for Royal Assent, after which it will become law.

Following Royal Assent, there will be a transitional period to enable switch over from the current licensing system to the new regime, expected to be in effect by early 2005. This will enable licensing authorities and the industry to put measures in place before the new regime takes effect.

(GMcG)