In Parliament today, Adrian Sanders MP tackled Culture, Media and Sport Minister Gerry Sutcliffe over bureaucracy in the licensing system.
Last month Adrian met with licensees of pubs and clubs in Paignton, along with council and police officials. Many raised concerns over the high level of bureaucracy the new licensing regime has created and the cost that comes with this.
Ignoring this, the Minister claimed that there had been a reduction in red tape, even though he had no figures to demonstrate this for the thousands of small businesses governed by the Licensing Act.
Other problems affecting licensees include high levels of beer tax and competition from supermarkets selling cut price alcohol, which can damage the pub and club trade irreparably, as well as moving the Government's message away from responsible drinking.
Adrian's question comes as the Scottish Government aims to crack down on binge drinking and cut price supermarket alcohol.
Adrian said: "Pubs provide tens of thousands of jobs nationwide, contributing heavily to local economies. They also provide a community focus. Well run pubs should not be penalised while supermarkets can sell cheap loss-leading alcohol."
"When it was brought in, the Licensing Act was supposed to help in the fight against anti-social behaviour but now its problems seem to outweigh its benefits. The Act needs to be reviewed and Ministers need to listen to those in the industry and local communities to get the balance right."
"The Minister gave a positive reply on measures the Government is taking to support pubs, and gave reassurances that the level of bureaucracy is constantly being reviewed."
Recent Comments