Commons Sense

House of Commons · Public Bill Committee

Licensing Hours Extensions Bill - Sitting 1

21 February 2024

Proposed by Sheryll Murray Con South East Cornwall

Culture, Media & Sport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

At a glance

Key points

  • The Licensing Hours Extensions Bill aims to amend the Licensing Act 2003 to simplify the process of extending licensing hours for significant events.
  • Clause 1 proposes changing the procedure for making licensing hours extension orders to negative, enabling quicker implementation by the Home Secretary or Ministers.
  • Clause 2 specifies the implementation date and scope of the Bill.

Issue summary

The statement discusses amendments to the Licensing Act 2003 to streamline the process of extending licensing hours for significant events. The Minister is discussing the Licensing Hours Extensions Bill and its criteria for extending license hours during exceptional events. The statement discusses the Licensing Hours Extensions Bill and its implications for hospitality venues during national events like the Olympics.

Action requested

Clause 1 proposes changing the parliamentary procedure for making licensing hours extension orders from affirmative to negative, allowing the Home Secretary or Ministers to make such orders without a lengthy approval process. Clause 2 sets the Bill's implementation date and scope.

Key facts

  • The Licensing Hours Extensions Bill aims to amend section 197 of the Licensing Act 2003.
  • Current procedure for licensing hours extension orders is affirmative, requiring parliamentary approval.
  • Proposed change will make the process negative, allowing quicker decision-making.
  • Previous events covered by this amendment include royal weddings and sporting finals.
  • The Bill allows anyone to approach the Home Office with an idea for an event that might qualify for extended license hours.
  • The criteria require the event to be of exceptional international, national, or local significance.
  • The power is intended to be rarely used and not routine.
  • The Licensing Hours Extensions Bill aims to extend licensing hours for hospitality venues during national events.
  • Under the negative statutory instrument procedure, Parliament retains the ability to oppose an order once it is made.
  • The Bill will benefit hospitality venues and local communities by allowing extended opening hours during important national celebrations.
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