by Richard Williams of thePublican.com's legal team of experts from London solicitors Joelson Wilson.
The discussion of the Licensing Bill in the House of Lords continues a pace. It seems that the entire industry is commenting in one way or another and some of the Lords must be straining under the weight of paperwork and non-stop phone calls from various campaigners. The level of input from some of the Lords has been quite stunning and it has certainly highlighted to me their importance in the legislative process.
This may come as a surprise to those of you who have seen a Lords' debate, with individuals apparently drifting off to sleep on the red leather benches.
The bill is expected to pass through the House of Lords on March 11, when a revised version, taking in to account all of the agreed amendments will be published on www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/pabills.
While I can't predict the final version of the bill, with the use of the draft guidance notes that have now been issued, I can suggest ways in which you might prepare for the introduction of the new legislation.
Taking action now could save you a great deal of time and effort once the six month transitional period commences. Remember that the courts will soon be inundated with requests for information, so if you act fairly quickly, you should be able to get the information you require.
Premises licence
- the original (or certified copy) liquor, night café or public entertainment licence (PEL)
- a plan of the premises
- any children's certificate
- the consent of the proposed designated premises supervisor
- the consent of the existing licence holder.
Action required: Look for the documents that will be required and keep a copy of them in a safe place. If you have any ancillary certificates, such as a special hours certificate or supper hour certificate you will need these to ensure that your existing hours of operation are carried over to the new licence. If you don't have the necessary documents, obtain a certified copy from the court or get new drawings prepared. Remember that once the transitional process starts, everyone will be rushing to get these documents and the courts will be inundated with requests. The transitional period will only operate for six months from a day to be appointed, during which time you must lodge your application for a premises licence.
Personal licence