Reform campaigners put pen to paper

Campaigners hoping to derail the current licensing reform proposals are to write to 40,000 publicans across the country asking for their support.

The letter, signed by campaign leaders Tim Martin of pub chain JD Wetherspoon and Stuart Neame from Kent brewer Shepherd Neame, claims licensees will face tougher political control and rising costs unless they help "Kill the Bill".

It accuses the government of planning to bring in tough new licensing laws which would restrict flexibility, place onerous new responsibilities on licensees and take up to £5,000 off the average pub's profits.

"A bill along these lines would be disastrous," the letter concludes.

The move follows concern over conflicting opinions within the trade on the best path for reform. Some believe the whole bill should be scrapped but others support all or part of it.

Earlier this month, trade leaders were warned that their apparent failure to speak with one voice could see them shut out of the consultation process.

Mr Neame has long believed that the licensing bill in its current form would bring problems that far outweigh the benefits. He teamed up with Tim Martin two weeks ago to call on the industry to join together to oppose the plans, before it was too late.Instead of the proposed system, he suggests that magistrates should retain control. In his letter he adds: "Politicians can always be persuaded to rethink, but only if enough licensees make their views felt."

Licensing reform is expected to be included in this year's Queen's Speech in November, leaving only five months for debate.

Licensing reform: have your say​

Have your say on licensing reform by taking part in our country-wide survey. Fill in our online survey and get your voice heard. We will be collating the responses we receive from the survey and presenting them to culture secretary Tessa Jowell to help clarify the trade's position on reform.