Licensing proposals supported

Consultation on Executive's plans for drinking reforms reveals broad support

News, 8 November 2004

Responses to the consultation on changes to the licensing laws show a high level of support for the Executive's proposals.

The consultation exercise followed the Executive's response to the Nicholson Committee's report on licensing reform, which advocated flexible licensing hours with local boards adopting policy statements under the framework of national guidelines.

The newly published analysis of responses discloses that most replies favoured such a framework, with some variation as to what it should cover. Support was strongest for national conditions on proof of age, irresponsible promotions and access by children. It was also felt that standard national conditions should be developed for off-sales and the provision of adult entertainment, and either guidance or national conditions for late opening.

A majority also favoured a presumption against 24-hour opening, subject to limited exceptions for example for ferry and air terminals, but a significant minority thought this should be left to the discretion of individual boards. Most respondents supported widening the range of legitimate objectors.

Deputy Public Service Reform Minister Tavish Scott said: "I am pleased to see that we have such a clear consensus on how we move forward and overhaul Scotland's licensing laws."