Barrister blasts licensing enforcement "Nazis

A top licensing lawyer has lambasted "Nazis of enforcement in every council" that are aiming to catch pubs breaking the restrictions on their operating schedules.

James Rankin, a barrister at Francis Taylor Buildings, also accused "ambitious police sergeants" of using the new licensing laws to advance their careers.

Speaking at a seminar for pub and bar operators organised by licensing solicitors Poppleston Allen, Rankin said conditions for licensees had "altered beyond recognition" since the responsibility for licences was transferred from magistrates to local authorities.

"These are really difficult times," he said. "Councillors don't have the expertise. It's a frightening thing. You'll find Nazis of enforcement in every council aiming to catch you out.

"Police attitude is a worry," he added. "They used to have a quiet word if there was a problem and it was a matter of 'let's sort it out'.

"Now you've got ambitious police sergeants who see that as interrupting the path to promotion."

Poppleston Allen partner Clare Eames said the practice had seen 1,000 per cent increase in its licensing and regulation work over the past four years as a result of zealous enforcement.

"A lot of local authorities have yet to find the right balance. Licensees need to take steps now to avoid action against them," she said.

But a spokeswoman for local authority co-ordinating body LACORS said councils had "worked tirelessly" with the trade to implement the Act.

He added: "Councils are committed to helping people safely through their day, and licensing officers are using their powers to make sure bars and pubs are complying with their licence conditions and are safe places to visit."