On-line licence applications 'from January'

Hosts may be able to apply for licences and temporary events notices entirely on-line from January 2010, the Government has announced.

The Government says the plan, announced today in a new six-week consultation, could save businesses and voluntary groups up to £1.5m per year - or £48 per application.

Businesses will be able to apply online through a new national facility being developed by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills as part of the 'businesslink' website.

One of the most significant changes is that licensing authorities, not applicants, will soon be responsible for notifying the police and other relevant authorities if an application is made electronically.

Licensing Minister Gerry Sutcliffe said: "This is just one of a number of measures we are putting into place to make it more convenient and cost-effective for businesses and voluntary organisations to get the licences they need.

"Information will be sent electronically to local authorities and the police, shaving days off the process as well as saving hefty postage and photocopying costs - changes that should make a significant difference to licensees and volunteers alike."

Businesses without online access will still be able to apply in writing using the current procedures, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport said.

This proposal requires amendments to regulations which sit alongside the Licensing Act - and will be subject to Parliamentary approval through the so-called "negative resolution" process.

View the consultation here: www.culture.gov.uk/what_we_do/alcohol_and_entertainment/3200.aspx