Licensees groups join forces to consult with local authorities
07-May-2003
The British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) and the Licensed Victuallers Association National Parliamentary Committee have agreed to work together on a national plan for consulting with local authorities on changes to the licensing system.
At a recent meeting, the Joint National Parliamentary Committee and BII Chief Executive John McNamara agreed to call a meeting of key licensee organisations as soon as possible to agree a joint national strategy aimed at ensuring licensees’ views are taken on board by local authorities when they are forming their own local licensing policies.
Under the proposed reforms, each of the 410 local authorities in England and Wales is responsible for developing its own local policy, with guidance from Westminster, to ensure that the main licensing objectives are met. These are: the protection of children from harm, the prevention of crime and disorder, the prevention of public nuisance and ensuring public safety.
Michael Preece, the Chairman of the National Parliamentary Committee of the LVA, said this was a significant opportunity for all the various national bodies representing licensees’ views to make sure licensees’ interests are protected under the new licensing regime and that the change really does mean less red tape.
He said: "Local authorities have a duty to consult the trade when they are forming their local plans and by joining forces we are ensuring that licensees’ views are represented clearly and coherently at every level."
John McNamara, Chief Executive of the BII, said: "I am delighted with this development. It further indicates the way that professional bodies, trade associations and licensee organisations have come together to try and ensure joint common interests are represented sensibly to both national and local government. As the professional body for the licensed retail industry our mission is to ensure that all our members are equipped to build better businesses and have the appropriate information to guide them in their future plans. This development is a key part in this strategy and supports the invaluable work carried out by the various Licensed Victuallers Associations throughout the country."
Notes to Editors
The BII is the professional body for the licensed trade. It has around 15,500 members and last year BIIAB processed over 80,000 qualifications. Its mission is to promote high standards of professionalism throughout the licensed retail sector; to encourage new entrants into the industry, and to help them develop their long-term careers. To provide all our members with high quality information, skills and qualifications to help them succeed in their business activities.
Ref: ES/BII/PR0690
Email: erica@bii.org
Contact: Erica Snedker, Communications Executive on 01276 417805 or Caroline Nodder, Corporate Communications Manager on 01276 417838/07855 841216.
