Licensing Act 2003 (Extension Orders) Bill - Clause 1

Proposes a Bill to simplify the process of making extension orders under section 172 of the Licensing Act 2003, enabling swift action during significant events. This reduces bureaucratic delays and ensures public venues can extend hours for key occasions like sporting matches or royal ceremonies.

Supports the Bill, citing personal experience as a Home Office Minister and understanding of the hospitality industry. Emphasises that such orders are crucial for bringing communities together in British pubs during significant events.

The hon. Member supports the amendment, highlighting the importance of supporting national teams and significant events in local pubs and social clubs. She emphasises that the current process using temporary event notices is a bureaucratic nightmare for licensing authorities. The proposed Bill will simplify this process while also providing economic benefits to the hospitality industry which employs thousands of people. However, she raises concerns about potential antisocial behaviour and the impact on residents who live near these venues. She advocates for proper consultation with local councillors, businesses and residents before approving such extensions.

Supports the Bill for its pragmatic streamlining of administrative procedures under the Licensing Act 2003. Emphasises that while it does not eliminate bureaucracy, it makes processes more efficient and responsive to local needs and challenges faced by the hospitality sector.

Briefly intervenes, noting that the Strangers Bar is closed but suggesting the House of Lords bar may be an alternative for celebrating the Bill's progress.

Supports the Bill, recognising its importance in boosting hospitality businesses and allowing communities to celebrate national events more freely. Emphasises that while it addresses some issues, additional measures are needed to support the sector fully.

The hon. Member congratulates the lead MP and acknowledges that this Bill is an example of pithiness in legislation, amending section 172 of the Licensing Act to allow for easier extensions of licensing hours during significant events such as coronations or royal weddings. He emphasises that while expectations should not be set too high due to stringent criteria, the bill will streamline the process and avoid bureaucratic hurdles that pubs face when applying for temporary event notices.

The hon. Member questions whether a local sporting event such as the Wembley play-off final would qualify under this Bill and urges swift passage to ensure its applicability for imminent events.

The hon. Member provides support from Scotland, emphasising the importance of this Bill across the United Kingdom and recognises its significance for pubs and nightlife in Scotland.

The hon. Member expresses gratitude to various stakeholders who have supported her during the Bill's progression, including parliamentarians, industry associations, and her constituents in South Shields. She commends the Government for supporting the Bill and acknowledges the simplicity of the amendment that will streamline licensing extensions.

The hon. Member offers cheers to Emma Lewell-Buck for her efforts in advancing this Bill through Parliament.