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Licensing Hours Extensions Bill

17 May 2024

Proposing MP
Emma Lewell Lab
South Shields
Type
Bill Debate

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement discusses the Licensing Hours Extensions Bill aimed at simplifying and streamlining the process for extending licensing hours during significant events. The statement discusses the Licensing Hours Extensions Bill, addressing the process for extending licensing hours during special events. The statement supports a Bill that simplifies licensing regulations by switching to the negative resolution procedure from the affirmative resolution procedure. The Licensing Hours Extensions Bill aims to amend section 197 of the Licensing Act 2003 to allow shorter notice for extending licensing hours during events of national significance. The Licensing Hours Extensions Bill aims to allow pubs to extend their licensing hours for significant events.

Action Requested

The MP proposes Clause 1 to allow the Home Secretary or Ministers to make an extension order without the current bureaucratic process, and Clause 2 to specify that the Bill will come into force upon Royal Assent. She emphasizes that this is a minor legislative change with strong cross-party support and no opposition anticipated.

Key Facts

  • The Licensing Act 2003 allows for temporary event notices costing £21 each.
  • It takes a minimum of five working days to approve an application, often longer.
  • Section 172 enables licensing extensions for occasions of exceptional significance.
  • Previous extension orders were made for royal events and major sports tournaments.
  • The Bill will simplify the process for extending licensing hours during special events.
  • It aims to address the bureaucratic nightmare associated with temporary event notices.
  • In Westminster, there are over 13,000 licensed premises employing more than 22,000 people and generating £1 billion annually.
  • The Licensing Act 2003 was introduced over 20 years ago.
  • About 80% of regulations are made through the negative route within Parliament.
  • The Bill aims to make it easier for pubs to extend their licensing hours for special events.
  • The Bill amends section 197 of the Licensing Act 2003.
  • In 2022, the hospitality sector generated £54 billion in tax receipts and £7 billion-worth of business investment.
  • 42% of tourists want to visit a pub when visiting the UK.
  • The Licensing Hours Extensions Bill amends section 172 of the Licensing Act 2003.
  • The Bill applies only in England and Wales.
  • Events like royal weddings, coronations, and major sporting finals may qualify for extended licensing hours under this Bill.
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