Issue - meetings

To consider proposed revisions to the Statement of Licensing Policy, together with proposed consultation arrangements.  

The Committee considered proposed revisions to the Statement of Licensing Policy, together with proposed consultation arrangements.

It was a legal requirement under S5 of the Licensing 2003 Act for the Licensing Authority to review its policy on a five-year basis, unless there were changes that were required mid-term. It was intended that the proposed Draft Policy would be publicised and submitted for consultation,  with responses being considered by the Committee at its meeting in November. The new Policy would cover the period 2022 to 2026.  

The statement set out the policy of the licensing authority with respect to carrying out its licensing functions for the sale of alcohol, provision of regulated entertainment and the provision of late night refreshment under the Act.

The licensing regime implemented by the Act and operated by New Forest District Council as licensing authority was intended to achieve the appropriate control of licensed premises, qualifying clubs and temporary events. It also covered the people who managed these premises or held personal licences within the terms of the Act.

It was suggested that an additional paragraph be added to the policy, in relation to encouraging landlords and their staff to be vigilant and aware of individuals who prey on vulnerable people in pubs and clubs, for example in relation to spiking drinks with spirits or ‘date rape drugs’. Staff should be alert and if necessary check CCTV and inform the police.  Whilst it was acknowledged that this aspect was covered in the 2003 Licensing Act by the existing licensing objectives (eg Prevention of Crime and Disorder), and elsewhere, it was felt worth highlighting this as a safeguarding issue. Accordingly, the Committee supported the inclusion of a specific reference to this issue.  

RESOLVED:

That, subject to the inclusion of the additional paragraph referred to above, the Draft Licensing Act Policy document be agreed for publication, and for the consultation period to run from 12 September 2021 to 6 November 2021.