News

A Forest of Dean Resident has pleaded guilty at a hearing in Gloucester Crown Court on 20 June 2024 for offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Adonis in London's Docklands says the Instagram post was a 'flippant, ill considered retort".

It is reported that no garages have come forward to assess licensed vehicles, forcing a council to rely on standard MOT tests.

Football-themed website Sorare.com is due to appear in court next week charged with providing unlicensed gambling facilities to consumers in Britain.

Between June 2020 and June 2024, the UK lost 480 nightclubs, averaging 10 closures per month—or 2 per week.

The Health Secretary has reportedly called for a 'national debate' on banning smoking outside pubs, as he "vowed to tackle the scourge of second-hand smoke".

Ministers have been urged to intervene to stop football clubs from setting their own rules on curbing gambling advertising, after research showed Premier League fans were bombarded with nearly 30,000 gambling messages on a single weekend.

Two people have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter following the death of a woman believed to have undergone a non-surgical Brazilian butt lift (BBL).

The Counter Terrorism Policing communications winter campaign toolkit is now available.

From this week, zombie-style knives and machetes are now illegal to possess or sell as part of new measures introduced to halve knife crime in a decade.

A man was today arrested on suspicion of providing unlicensed gambling.

The night-time economy is a vital part of cultural and social life, yet venues and event spaces across the UK continue to face significant challenges around inclusivity and safeguarding.

A Darlington man has been found guilty of providing false information to the Security Industry Authority (SIA).

The restaurant was previously raided by Immigration Enforcement.

According to a report in The Standard, a Westminster council licensing officer confirmed the legal action and said that Global was arguing that the local authority was failing to take action to abate an alleged statutory nuisance.

Beer and pub industry supports more than 1 million jobs – but BBPA warns jobs could be at risk if Government doesn’t support sector.

Uber has been granted a new operating licence in London "with conditions" by Transport for London (TfL). This comes after a period of repeated safety failures and negative decisions, but Uber has made positive changes to its operations. The new licence will run until the second half of 2024.

An unlicensed dog breeder has been ordered to pay a £2,540 fine after North Lincolnshire Council licensing officers investigated reports of illegal dog breeding.

It is widely reported that "pub bosses" have allegedly been warned that ministers could bring in minimum alcohol pricing as part of its public health drive, according to The Telegraph.

The data being released today is the latest edition of the Gambling Commission’s Gambling Survey for Great Britain (GSGB) conducted by NatCen.

Code of practice on fair and transparent distribution of tips, set to come into effect on 1st October 2024.

The SIA welcomes proposals for new regulatory role.

A door supervisor using a fraudulent Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence was handed a 12 month prison sentence last week.

In "an important judgment", the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber) has allowed an appeal against the First-tier Tribunal’s decision in respect of a set of conditions attached to a caravan site licence issued by Amber Valley Borough Council to Haytop Country Park Ltd. Richard Kimblin KC appeared for the appellant Borough Council.

Only 2 weeks left! Don't miss the opportunity to have your say on the review of the IoL's review on its Suitability Guidance.

The draft Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill would require those responsible for publicly accessible venues to take steps to reduce the threat to the public from terrorist attacks.

A café owner has had his alcohol licence suspended after admitting to buying a bottle of vodka from a ‘street seller’ for £10.

Research from accountancy firm PwC suggests pharmacies, pubs and banks made up half of the closures on Britain’s high streets in the first six months of this year.

The licence holders of the premises that host a gay rave club in London are being threatened with legal action if they refuse to disassociate with club promoters who have claimed “Zionism has no place in queer spaces”.

An evening of celebrations took place as Nottingham’s Best Bar None awards recognised the city’s best pubs, bars, clubs, restaurants, and entertainment venues for responsible management and operation of alcohol-licensed premises.

Black Lives in Music (BLiM), has presented evidence to the London Assembly showing that racial prejudice in event licensing remains a major problem and continues to significantly impact the night-time economy and create barriers for BAME artists and promoters.

LIVE, the voice of the UK’s live music industry, has today published data showing the sector’s contribution to the UK economy last year exceeded £6 billion for the first time.

Gambling Commission Executive Director of Research and Policy Tim Miller provides an update on the Commission's commitments to the Gambling Act Review.

From 30 August 2024 the Commission’s new rules which mean all gambling land-based licensees, including smaller licensees, must carry out age verification test purchasing will come into force.

Wrexham Council warns licence holders there to be aware of premises licence “smishing”* scams asking for money to update their licences.

LIVE, the voice of the UK’s live music industry, has published data showing the sector’s contribution to the UK economy last year exceeded £6 billion for the first time.

The national media reported that Whitehall papers have confirmed that the Government plans to extend the indoor smoking ban to restrict smoking outdoors, including in pub gardens.

The directors of a security company have been fined after a door supervisor was found working at a Bristol nightclub with a suspended licence.

A door supervisor who worked at a bar in Garforth without a licence has been convicted at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court.

Ilford taxi and delivery driver claimed £100,000 of Bounce Back Loans and failed to spend the money on his businesses

Hundreds of rogue employers across the UK have been targeted by the Home Office during a nationwide weeklong intensive operation into illegal working.

Drinks sales continued a difficult run with a year-on-year drop of 5% last week, CGA by NIQ’s latest Daily Drinks Tracker shows.

The high-profile founder of a private animal sanctuary is appealing against a decision by Uttlesford District Council to refuse her application to keep Ring Tail lemurs.

A Mayfair private members’ club’s licence has been revoked following a review triggered by a large fight at the venue.

Local authorities and public sector organisations have received a special honour from the RSPCA as part of the prestigious PawPrints awards.

A convenience store in Preston has had its licence revoked following a number of sales of restricted items to children.

An unlicensed private hire driver who was found by council enforcement officers operating a vehicle without a private hire licence in Uttlesford has been fined almost £1,500.

A new survey reveals how almost every hospitality business has seen steep increases in wages and food costs.

From Tuesday 1 April 2025, door supervisors and security guards must undertake refresher training to renew their licence.

A woman using a fake SIA licence to work as a security guard at a McDonald’s in East London has been convicted following an SIA investigation.

Royal China in Baker Street has paid fines totalling £470,000 following three visits by immigration officers it is reported.

A Mayfair private member's club has had its licence revoked following a review triggered by a large fight at the venue.

Proposals to introduce a strict licensing framework for canine fertility businesses have been announced.

The Government is reportedly considering changes around councillors attending meetings virtually.

From 30 August 2024 the Commission’s new rules which mean all gambling land-based licensees, including smaller licensees, must carry out age verification test purchasing will come into force.

The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has published a resource note from various organisations, including the IoL, to support enhanced security efforts in the hospitality sector.

The organisations responsible for approving training providers joined with Ofqual and the SIA to discuss tackling training malpractice and fraud.

The owner of a former pub must reinstate it as such following enforcement action by the London Borough of Southwark.

A pub has kept its licence despite a police bid to have it removed following noise complaints from neighbours, the BBC reported.

A man who has been charged with posting offensive material online has had his taxi licence revoked.

People in Lancashire are being warned about using private hire taxis that are licenced in other parts of the country.

National Pubwatch has launched new research to demonstrate the importance of pubwatch schemes to fighting crime and disorder.

UKHospitality Cymru has said a new, fairer system that reduces the burden on high street businesses is required.

The information note on drink spiking has been endorsed by the IoL alongside other stakeholders including the BBPA, UK Hospitality, BII, Hospitality Ulster, the NTIA, National PubWatch, Best Bar None and NALEO.

The IoL has responded to the consultation by HM Treasury regarding potential l impacts of the High Court judgment in Uber Britannia Limited v Sefton Borough Council 2023 High Court and the options available to government following the eventual outcome of this appeal. The appeal outcome has since been published, with the Court of Appeal overturning the original decision. It is currently unclear whether the case will be considered by the Supreme Court.

On Monday 29 July, the Government will lay before Parliament the secondary legislation to bring the Code of Practice and Tipping Act into force from Tuesday 01 October 2024.

Havering Council’s licensing and trading standards teams have been out across the borough to prevent local retailers selling age-restricted products such as vapes and tobacco to young people aged under 18.

A pub in Surrey could have its licence suspended after police found bags of cocaine and an amount of cash on the premises.

Private hire drivers in Wolverhampton are now required to keep livery signage off doors, under new rules to combat fake taxis the BBC reports.

The Welsh Government is encouraging people to provide their views on its vision for the culture sector, with just under a month to go until the consultation closes.

In the past six months alone, global TV, film and gaming audiences have had the chance to see many Welsh-related productions.

The Gambling Commission has published further data on the gambling industry in Great Britain.

The number of licensed taxis and private hire vehicles in England and Wales as at 1 April 2024.

The HMRC consultation is ending on 8 August 2024.

The Gambling Commission has launched a new gambling survey, which is set to become one of the largest in the world and establish a new baseline for understanding gambling behaviour in Britain.

Statistics published today show the food and drink industry in Wales grew by 10% last year.

The work of public protection officers in Wrexham has resulted in one off licence losing its licence and a convenience store having a 3-month closure order imposed by Wrexham Magistrates.

The final progress report of the Independent Inquiry into Telford Child Sexual Exploitation has been published, including a raft of licensing recommendations.

A girl died of a suspected MDMA overdose and 21 other young teenagers were taken to hospital with drug-related symptoms following an event at a popular Margate venue, the Independent reported.

Updates from July 2024 Gambling Commission bulletin for licensing authorities.

Crown Court quash caravan park licence conviction in Wyldecrest Park Management v. Bristol City Council.

King’s Speech unveils a raft of bills, setting out the new Labour Government's legislative agenda. We look at the proposals relevant to members.

National Pubwatch has commissioned independent researchers from Leeds Business School at Leeds Beckett University to undertake a study to evaluate the effectiveness of local Pubwatch Schemes.

The Court of Appeal has overturned a judgment of Mrs Justice Foster in July 2023, which had held that in order to operate lawfully under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976, operators had to contract with passengers to provide the journey the subject of the booking.

Allied Vehicles have shared information regarding concerns about Certificates of Conformity in relation to Taxis and PHV's.

Vaughan Gething, First Minister of Wales, confirmed plans to modernising taxi & PH licensing in a recent oral statement on the Welsh Government's Legislative Programme.

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has today published the findings from its public consultation on the future of its business approval scheme.

A taxi driver has lost his appeal against Luton Borough Council’s decision to revoke his licence after it was told he had behaved inappropriately towards a female passenger.

A FAREHAM Borough Council-licensed Uber driver has been hit with financial penalties of more than £1,000 and given eight points on his driving licence after he was caught illegally plying for hire for £10 fares in Reading, for a second time.

The High Court has dismissed a challenge to a licensing authority’s use of remote hearings.

The Institute of Licensing is consulting on its draft revised guidance: ‘Suitability Guidance: Guidance on determining the suitability of applicants and licensees in the taxi and private hire industry’. The consultation will close on 30th September 2024.

UK Hospitality reported that England fixtures have delivered an average year-on-year sales boost to hospitality of 21% across Great Britain.

From 1 July, amended LCCPs comes in to force, requiring all licensees to submit regulatory returns on a quarterly basis.

The UK’s Night-Time Economy (NTE) "faces a critical juncture" as it grapples with an alarming rise in business failures, the NTIA said.

Southampton City Council has voted to implement a new drug testing policy for taxi drivers that allows council officers to carry out spot checks on licensed drivers.

If plans are approved, Middlesbrough Council's cumulative impact policy (CIP) zone will be extended to restrict the granting of licences to sell alcohol in more areas.

The Government Digital Service (GDS) has confirmed it will continue to support the gov.uk licensing service beyond March 2025.

MSPs have backed a range of technical updates to the short-term lets licensing scheme in response to engagement with accommodation operators.

The data being released today is the second edition of the Gambling Commission’s Gambling Survey for Great Britain (GSGB) conducted by NatCen.

A combination of the Euro 2024 football tournament and Father’s Day led to an 18% surge in beer sales last week, CGA by NIQ’s Daily Drinks Tracker shows.

Cardiff black cab drivers will protest tomorrow after they were banned for waiting outside the train station for taxi rank spaces they pay to use, which will cause serious damage to their livelihoods.

An Eltham pet shop has lost its licence after inspectors raised concerns for the health and wellbeing of its animals – but its owner insists they are all well-loved and looked after.

A restaurant and bar has surrendered its licence after allegations a 16 and a 17-year-old girl who drank at the venue were later raped.

A licensing regime for the use of rodent glue traps has opened to applicants.

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has published new guidance videos for business users, licence holders and licence applicants.

The NTIA said it was "deeply concerned" to report a "devastating trend" showing, over the past year, an average of 32 independent nighttime economy venues have closed weekly.

Creative Wales has announced £300,000 in funding to help grow and nurture the music industry in Wales.

This guidance aims to highlight the primary security concerns arising during the ingress and egress phases of venue operations.

It has been reported that the Conservative Party has pledged to focus on pubs and clubs in 'first 100 days'.

Sight Loss Councils have launched new English and Urdu audio and written guides for taxi, private-hire vehicle and mini cab staff to ensure they feel confident when travelling with blind and partially sighted people with their guide dogs.

A man who sold goods in the streets of Birmingham did not break the law as he was protected under an 1871 act by being a pedlar, the High Court has found.

Northern Ireland for Infrastructure, Minister John O'Dowd, has confirmed that there are no plans to review taxi legislation in Northern Ireland.

A city councillor who sold puppies without a licence has been ordered to pay almost £50,000 to the city council.

City of York Council's licensing committee voted to approve the online ride-hailing firm's application.

A street trader fined for illegally selling food out of a van was prosecuted again for doing the same thing days after his case was heard in court.

As the 4th of July General Election is looming, we look at the main Political Party's Manifestos, with a particular emphasis on licensing and community safety related announcements.

A knife arch to highlight the negative impacts of knife crime, security inspections and a drink drive campaign are all part of the Safer Summer campaign to help people enjoy safer nights out over the Euros.

Peterborough magistrates’ court has dismissed an appeal of East Cambridgeshire District Council’s revocation of a private hire and hackney carriage licence.

The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) is calling on all Political Parties to recognise the vital importance of the Night Time Economy (NTE).

Nominations for the 2024 award are invited by 3rd parties by no later than 6th September 2024.

NAFN has updated its NR3S guidance addressing circumstances where drivers chose to surrender their licences instead of facing the prospect of a revocation or suspension in order to avoid an NR3S entry.

Key changes in the Investigatory Powers (Amendment) Act 2024 relate to the definition of lawful authority, the meaning of communications data subscriber details and changes to the powers to obtain communications data for civil investigations.

Westminster City Council previously suspended the venue’s licence at a meeting on May 17 ahead of a full review.

A Glasgow pub known for its rare licence to sell alcohol at 08:00 has closed after 37 years.

Derby Magistrates’ Court has fined Ms. Alana Hesketh of Linton, South Derbyshire for offences relating to unlicensed dog breeding which is in breach of Section 13 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Ms. Hesketh pleaded guilty to the charges, resulting from an investigation led by the Council’s Licensing Authority and Environmental Health Department.

The Guide Dogs has written to local authorities seeking support for its "Open Doors" campaign to end illegal access refusals.

An animal attraction near Minehead has had its licence to exhibit animals revoked by Somerset Council.

Glasgow’s licensing committee turned down 38 applications due its overprovision policy, which means only 3,450 cars can operate at one time.

A taxi driver has had his licence revoked and ordered to pay Bolsover District Council £1,000 in court costs.

The Licensing Hours Extensions Bill was not included in the Government's wash-up process following the dissolution of Government.

The changes highlight that the Kennel Club’s UKAS accreditation expired on 30 May 2024 and explain the implications of this.

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons has published a new format for the schedule of horses kept in an establishment used for the Hiring of Horses.

MSPs have backed legislation giving councils a new power to introduce a visitor levy that would raise funding for local visitor facilities and services.

South Oxfordshire District Council licensed taxi driver pleaded guilty at Reading Magistrates Court in April

Confiscated and surrendered drugs will be tested to identify toxic substances in circulation and help prevent drug-related overdoses.

Following a heavily contested hearing before the London Borough of Camden’s Licensing Sub-Committee, on 23 May 2024 a premises licence was granted to Farsight Collective to operate a new 500-capacity grassroots music venue and community hub in St Giles within the Seven Dials Cumulative Impact Area.

The Licensing Hours Extensions Bill has passed the Commons stage and has had its first reading in the House of Lords on the 20th of May.

The Welsh Cabinet Secretary for Culture and Social Justice has launched a consultation on the draft Priorities for Culture in Wales, focussing on three main priorities.

The Irish Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin TD, announced the launch of a new Night-Time Economy accessibility survey.

A report by the Institute of Alcohol Studies on the cost of alcohol abuse has found that £27 billion a year is being spent in England on the health and social harms of drinking.

A Bishop’s Cleeve woman pleaded guilty to one offence in relation to breeding dogs at her home address without a licence at Cheltenham Magistrates Court Monday, 13 May 2024.

The Government has published two white papers on regulation that sets out the smart regulation initiative actions to date and proposals for the future.

An unlicensed taxi driver was fined £475 and was given six penalty points at Belfast Magistrates' Court today, leading to a six-month driving ban due to an accumulation of points.

Pubs, bars and restaurants have previously had to shut at midnight, but now the Glasgow Licensing Board has approved 54 applications to close at 01:00.

The most recent figures from CGA Neilson reveal a "devastating" loss of nightclubs in the first three months of 2024.

Regulations have been laid in Parliament that provide technical updates to the short-term let licensing scheme.

The High Court has this week (15 May) heard a challenge being brought by a nightclub in south-east London to a licensing authority’s use of remote hearings.

The government is considering options to make it easier for hospitality businesses to sell alcohol to drink in licensed pavement areas.

The 2024 UEFA European Championship is a major opportunity to attract customers who want to watch live matches in the great atmosphere provided by pubs. The tournament will be played from 14th June, culminating in the final on 14th July.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCSM) published its gambling white paper back in April 2023 which included proposals for modernising regulation of the land-based sector.

A new levy on arena and stadium tickets and a cut in VAT are urgently needed to support grassroots music venues across the country as they struggle to cope with a crisis of closures and soaring costs, MPs said.

Buckinghamshire Council has successfully defended in court a decision to revoke a private hire taxi driver’s licence after he was caught using a mobile phone whilst driving.

Closures in Britain’s hospitality sector slowed from eight sites a day in 2023 to four a day in the first quarter of 2024, the latest Hospitality Market Monitor from CGA by NIQ and AlixPartners reveals.

Further to our previous report, the Government has now published The Licensing Act 2003 (UEFA European Football Championship Licensing Hours) Order 2024.

Proposals which will help to protect people against the threat of ticket touts at UEFA EURO 2028 are the focus of a new consultation launched today.

The small grant scheme supports festivals and events to add value to the industry in Wales whilst improving visitor access to and awareness of Welsh food and drink.

On 26 January 2024, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) prosecuted former door supervisor Steven Richardson for breaching the Private Security Industry Act.

A private hire driver who attempted to assault a man with a “baseball bat” has been granted a new licence to work in the city.

In its latest update to local authorities, NAFN has provided an update on NR3S developments.

New restaurants, offices, schools and hospitals in England will be required to have separate male and female toilets.

Pub and bar licensing hours will be extended if England and/or Scotland reach the semi-finals or final of Euro 2024 this summer.

The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Hospitality and Tourism is launching an inquiry into ‘recruitment and retention of staff in hospitality’.

The Gambling Commission has announced widespread changes aimed at increasing safety and customer choice.

The Gambling Commission has published further data on the gambling industry in Great Britain.

A recent report produced by Shakespeare Martineau for the Night Time Industries Association has shown that the hospitality and night time economy sectors in the UK have experienced a significant increase in businesses going into administration.

The small grant scheme supports festivals and events to add value to the industry in Wales whilst improving visitor access to and awareness of Welsh food and drink.

The lawsuit could see about 10,500 drivers eligible for up to £25,000 compensation each - as they claim Uber improperly obtained a licence from Transport for London in 2012.

The district judge who dismissed a private security industry regulator’s prosecution against loyalist activist Jamie Bryson was wrong in law, the Court of Appeal ruled.

New laws have been passed as part of an update to the Investigatory Powers Act 2016.

The Pedicabs (London) Act 2024 has now been made.

The BBC reported that Uber was previously granted permission to launch in the city in 2018, but later surrendered its licence.

A delicatessen owner has been granted a premises licence to sell alcohol despite her landlord allegedly threatening to evict her over the plans.

The Institute of Licensing is delighted to be joining the Private Hire & Taxi Exhibition Milton Keynes 2024 Show. The PHTM Expo will take place on 15th and 16th May at the Arena MK.

The Centre for Personal Financial Wellbeing at Aston University has completed a two-year project with Birmingham City Council (BCC) exploring in depth the connections between harmful gambling and tenancy security – the first study of its kind in the UK.

The government’s Tipping Act is a step closer to coming into force, with the Code of Practice being published and laid before Parliament.

Ahead of the Re-Opening of the Brixton Academy this evening more than a year after being closed Michael Kill CEO NTIA says: “We are pleased that the Brixton Academy will finally be able to open its doors this evening for the first time in over a year, with a comprehensive safety plan and extended licensing conditions which have been agreed by authorities to safeguard future events within this iconic building.”

The Pedicabs (London) Bill returned from the Lords on Tuesday 26 March with no amendments.

The Middlesbrough Empire is facing a fight for its existence after a man was allegedly "thrown to the ground" outside the venue in March.

Consultation on the potential tax impacts of recent High Court judgments on transport legislation on the private hire vehicle sector and its passengers.

AN UNLICENSED taxi driver, who was found to be illegally plying for hire in Reading, has been hit with fines and costs of £2,900 and given eight penalty points on his licence.

Ben Larry died on May 6 last year after contracting a serious infection following tattoo work in a garden shed, an inquest heard

The Scala in Merthyr Tydfil was the subject of complaints, including a neighbouring snooker club claiming vibrations from noise were causing balls to move on tables.

The Local Government Association (LGA) has urged Minister to ignore rebel MPs’ calls for selective licencing to be scrapped.

Swindon Borough Council’s licensing committee has extended the council's "cumulative impact assessment" for three years, after police said it was helping to cut crime.

The Government said licensing reform will maximise the economic and environmental potential of the crop.

The Gambling Commission is reminding Licensing Authorities of the timescales for renewal of Licensing Policy Statements under the Gambling Act 2005.

The Scottish Government is taking action to improve the rights of tied pub tenants across the country.

Evidence of a licensed taxi driver breaking the licencing rules on more than one occasion, has led to the driver having his taxi licence to operate revoked by Tamworth Borough Council Licensing Committee, at a hearing on 28 March 2024.

The Gambling Commission has issued a statement relating to Statement of Licensing Policy reviews during a time then the Gambling Act is subject to reviews.

The EFRA Committee wants the Government to address the fact that more than half of the puppies entering the market come from unlicensed breeders, and is today calling for a list of licensed breeders to be made public, and a change in the licensing regulations so as to include breeders of two or more litters a year, in order to counter low welfare breeding practices and provide assurance to buyers.

Six public houses in South Derbyshire have been issued with warnings by the District Council’s licensing team after allowing underage individuals to play gaming machines on their premises.

Titled ‘Gambling Regulation in a Digital Age’. The strategy underlines the Commission’s commitment to deliver on the decisions set out in the Government's White Paper High Stakes - Gambling reform for the digital age.

Award-winning teams of animal licensing and enforcement officers are making a difference across Wales, as part of the Welsh Government’s plans to improve animal welfare, Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths confirmed.

The Institute of Licensing has responded to the Welsh Government's consultation on the draft regulations and statutory guidance for mandatory licensing of special procedures.

Bet365 is to pay £582,120 for anti-money laundering and social responsibility failures at its online business.

In response to several high-profile incidents resulting in loss of life or serious injury, a collaborative effort has been undertaken by the UK Crowd Management Association, Night Time Industries Association, LIVE, and UK Door Security Association.

A Wakefield city centre venue has had its licence revoked following the execution of a warrant at the premise last month.

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has written to local authorities to confirm that the pavement licensing regime has now been made permanent.

The Institute has published its response to the Home Office's age verification consultation.

A bill that will hand Transport for London (TfL) new licensing powers over pedicabs operating in the capital has passed its third reading in the House of Commons and is set to receive Royal Assent in the coming weeks.

The Gambling Commission have confirmed that they are changing the frequency they require all operators to submit regulatory returns from annually to quarterly.

Stonegate has taken action to address historic breaches of the Pubs Code regarding the provision of rent proposals.

Reforms will help reunite thousands of lost or stolen animals every year and deter pet theft.

XL Bully owners can apply for an exemption certificate so they can continue to legally own their dogs in the long term.

A West Suffolk taxi driver who admitted showing a female passenger a weblink to a pornographic website has lost an appeal to drive an East Cambridgeshire licensed taxi or private hire vehicle.

The Animal Welfare (Primate Licences) (England) Regulations 2023 have been signed into law and will come into force from 6 April 2026.

Tewkesbury Borough Council has successfully prosecuted two individuals for offences relating to licensing and operating of private hire vehicles.

The Institute of Licensing (IoL) is delighted to announce the election of Kate Nicholls OBE as National Chair, effective 1st April 2024. David Lucas has been elected as Vice Chair, alongside existing Vice Chair Gary Grant, effective immediately.

Tougher new powers are needed to crack down on shisha bars that breach smoking laws and are linked to anti-social behaviour.

The Government has committed to a consultation on the impacts of the July 2023 High Court ruling in Uber Britannia Ltd v Sefton MBC.

Pubs across the managed estate were assessed on venue management, staff training and care, customer safety and welfare, and customer service and community, with the pub company achieving a 100% pass rate.

Charles Holland examines a recent ruling where conditions restricting the ability to cross-border subcontract were quashed on appeal.

BBFC launches new Classification Guidelines reflecting shifts in public opinion towards violence, drug use, sex and use of language.

The Institute has published its response to the Home Office's consultation on the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill Standard Tier consultation.

Officers from Tarian Regional Organised Crime Unit (ROCU), working in partnership with the Gambling Commission, HMRC and Cardiff City Council Licensing, executed six warrants across Cardiff on Wednesday 28 February.

A music venue at the centre of a three-year noise row will continue to open as a nightclub but with noise-limiting restrictions in place.

Co-op Live, in Manchester, will become the UK's largest live entertainment arena when it opens its doors on 23 April. The world-class, 23,500-capacity venue is located opposite Manchester City’s stadium, on the Etihad Campus. The new venue is a joint venture between Oak View Group and City Football Group.

Four taxi drivers have been ordered to pay a total of over £6,000 for illegally plying for hire at Henley Regatta.

The Local Government Association has published seven original articles from leading policy thinkers exploring the future of local publicly funded cultural services and devolution.

Gambling Minister Stuart Andrew gives an update on the progress of the Government's gambling white paper at the Gambling with Lives Parliamentary Forum.

The Scottish Government have published their analysis of the responses received to their recent consultation on the potential future licensing of a range of animal-related activities – which shows there is overwhelming public support for regulation to be introduced.

A bar in Whitby which had faced losing its licence has been told it can reopen after police withdrew their complaint following its sale to a new owner.

A Leeds city centre pub has avoided having its premises licence revoked despite warnings from the police over violent incidents.

The Animal Welfare (Primate Licences) (England) Regulations 2023 have been signed into law today and will come into force from 6 April 2026.

Two men and a woman have pleaded guilty at Derby Justice Centre to offences relating to unauthorised breeding of dogs and animal welfare offences following investigations by South Derbyshire District Council.

On 23 February Karvan Nawaz was prosecuted at Oxford Magistrates' Court for submitting a fraudulent document to the Security Industry Authority (SIA).

A Three Rivers private hire taxi driver has been fined and had his licence revoked after being caught using a mobile phone whilst driving.

Lesley Griffiths, The Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd made a statement following the conclusion of the consultation on the licensing of animal welfare establishments, activities, and exhibits in Wales.

The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) and the Institute of Hospitality are proud to announce their collaboration on a vital campaign, #LeaveNoOneBehind, aimed at advocating for the survival and recovery of their collective membership of over 20,000 businesses in the UK.

The IoL responded to the consultation with assistance from it's Animal Consultation Panel which includes members from the Welsh region. We took into account the views from the Wales Expert Panel and also our previous responses in relation to consultations in Scotland.

The Home Office are hosting a number of webinars for information on the Martyn’s Law Standard Tier Consultation.

The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Metal, Stone and Heritage Crime, in its latest report, revealed that metal theft costing UK economy half a billion pounds a year and has called on the Government to review the Scrap Metal Act.

A blanket relaxation of licensing hours for the semi-final and final of the Euros will benefit football fans and businesses alike.

The Security Industry Authority has launched a public consultation on the key principles that will underpin its business approval scheme going forward.

Essex Police have launched a new awareness campaign to make stolen goods too hot to handle within the retail sector.

A row has broken out between bosses of the two largest indoor UK arenas, with one accusing the other of trying to block its opening for competition reasons.

Three Addison Lee drivers have reached an out of court settlement with the company in their case for workers' rights, including entitlements to holiday pay and minimum wage.

A driver who let his car be used as a taxi during the Henley Regatta despite the vehicle being unlicensed has been ordered to pay more than £1,500 in fines and costs.

Stake limits for online slot games will be introduced for the first time in September, including lower limits for young adults, as the Government continues to roll out measures to protect people from gambling harms.

The IoL and Local Alcohol Partnerships Group will be present at the 2024 National Pubwatch Conference which will be held the Crowne Plaza in Sheffield on Tuesday 5th March.

Plug-in Taxi Grant provides funding of £6,000 per electric taxi vehicle and is extended until April 2025.

Children will be better protected from sexual predators under plans being brought forward by the Home Secretary.

A police objection to a nightclub licence transfer has been upheld over fears it was a rebranding exercise.

A Reading nightclub will have to temporarily close down after cocaine was discovered at the venue.

The Government has published a statement setting out the next steps in developing a registration scheme for short-term lets in England.

NTIA Figures Reveal Extent of Crisis: UK Nightclubs Struggle as Dance Floors Nationwide Shut Down In response to the escalating crisis facing nightclubs across the UK.

How electronic music keeps the UK economy thriving. The second UK electronic music industry report. The economic, community and cultural value of the electronic music industry in the UK.

The Welsh Government are consulting on the draft regulations and statutory guidance for the mandatory licensing of special procedures. The consultation will close on 8 April 2024.

On 18 January 2024 David Martyn Hill, the sole director of ACE Security Specialist Ltd. was prosecuted at Doncaster Magistrates' Court.

Letter from the Animal Sentience Committee to the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Committee on the welfare implications of adding XL Bully dogs to the Dangerous Dogs Act.

The Government has launched its new Disability Action Plan including a commitment to work with representatives from the guide dog and assistance animals sectors to improve access.

Traffic Commissioner for the West of England, Kevin Rooney recently heard the case of Denwell Mini Coaches Ltd and its Transport Manager, Darren Brown.

Belfast City Council is now operating a permanent pavement café licensing scheme for local hospitality and retail businesses wanting to place furniture on a public area outside their premises for use by their customers.

Owners of a £25 million floating entertainment venue have given up on plans to operate it on the River Thames after opposition from local residents.

Plans to continue setting a minimum price per unit of alcohol and to increase it by 15p will go before the Scottish Parliament for approval.

A taxi driver is counting the cost of unlawfully plying for trade during the Henley Regatta.

Fears have been raised that a strip club ‘monopoly’ could be created in Edinburgh by new licensing rules aimed at restricting the number of venues.

A nightclub that "attracts thousands of visitors to Bournemouth town centre’s nighttime economy" will remain open after a national restructure by operator Rekom UK that called in the administrators as part of a major restructuring.

A Glasgow private hire car driver who indecently assaulted a woman and threatened to abduct her while working has lost his licence.

A consultation has opened on new laws to make sure we are better prepared for, and protected from, terrorist attacks.

A disabled man who had collapsed from exhaustion says he was refused taxi services because of his assistance dog.

Tewkesbury Borough Council has successfully prosecuted two individuals for offences relating to licensing of private hire vehicles.

The Deputy Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Dawn Bowden has announced during Independent Venues Week that £718,000 has been offered to 17 grass roots music venues across Wales, from the Creative Wales Music Capital Fund.

Disposable vapes will be banned in the UK as part of ambitious government plans to tackle the rise in youth vaping and protect children’s health.

A taxi driver who was caught illegally driving passengers to Birmingham Airport has been fined after admitting using an unlicensed and uninsured vehicle.

Grassroots music venues, which offer a vital launchpad for fledgling acts, risk closure, new research warns.

A bar in Liverpool city centre has had its licence revoked following an investigation into violent disorder last month.

Greggs has scrapped plans for a 24-hour licence at one of its Kent branches after fears were raised it could lead to anti-social behaviour.

The LGA has produced a table which seeks to map the levers local regulatory services have at their disposal to help deliver councils net zero ambitions.

The Government has launched a consultation on whether to allow digital identities and technology to play a role in age verification for alcohol sales, as well as whether to amend legislation in order to specify that for sales of alcohol that do not take place face to face, age verification should take place at the point of delivery as well as sale.

A food vendor has been ordered to pay nearly £10,000 in fines and costs after unlawfully trading in a layby.

Gov.uk information has been updated to reflect pre-pandemic limits, now that the easements have lapsed.

New law will create a new specific offence for dog and cat abduction.

The Portman Group launches the first industry-wide and freely available Alcohol Alternatives Guidance for packaging and marketing to help producers ensure alcohol alternative products are marketed and sold responsibly to consumers.

Worthing Magistrates’ Court has upheld a decision by West Sussex County Council to revoke a businessman’s alcohol licence over the sale of counterfeit cigarettes.

"Tight safeguards" on XL Bully dogs are to be introduced in Scotland to make it a criminal offence to own the breed without an exemption certificate.

Taking away the largest serving of wine by the glass – in most cases the 250ml option – led to an average reduction in the amount of wine sold at pubs and bars of just under 8%, new research led by a team at the University of Cambridge has discovered.

An alcohol licence has been granted in a couple's garden dispute, they objected fearing "drunken strangers may wander into their garden".

Button Training has provided an annotated version of the latest DfT Best Practice Guidance for Taxis and Private Hire.

Rekom, which owns the Atik and Pryzm brands, said any restructure of the business could see some of its well-known nightclubs shut for good.

Part three of the review into Operation Span and the investigation of non-recent child sexual exploitation in Rochdale found little evidence of licensing efforts to disrupt the exploitation in Rochdale.

The defendant was 'cruising' the streets of Swansea in the early hours of the morning in his black car posing as a cabbie according to reports by Wales Online.

Join us at the NTIA's Night Time Economy Summit at Freight Island in Manchester on 8th and 9th February. Daniel Davies and Tim Shield will both host discussions looking at Industry Insights and future trends, and challenges and solutions to onerous licensing conditions. This event is FREE to local authority officers.

The Department for Business and Trade is seeking views on setting up a code of practice on fair and transparent distribution of tips. This consultation closes at 4:30pm on 22 February 2024

The IoL and Gambling Business Group will be present at the forthcoming ICE 2024 event at Excel in London on 8th February 2024. The event is free to attend and open to all, so come along and say hello. This is the UK's largest gaming and betting exhibition, with over 40,000 attendees last year. IoL Director David Lucas will be there for the IoL.

The Minister of State for Crime, Policing and Fire has written to licensing authorities on the provision of training for licensing practitioners, and the collaboration between local licensing and planning regimes.

A gambling business will pay a £6 million penalty after a Gambling Commission investigation revealed social responsibility and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) failings.

The Court of Appeal has granted International Game Technology PLC's (IGT) request to dismiss its appeal, following IGT stating that they will no longer pursue a claim for damages against the Commission.

Plans to introduce a statutory registration and licensing scheme for all visitor accommodation in Wales have been announced by the Deputy Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Dawn Bowden today with legislation expected to be introduced to the Senedd before the end of the year.

The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has released the results of a comprehensive flash poll involving over 453 NTIA member businesses within the UK’s Night Time Economy (NTE). The poll aimed to evaluate trading levels and impacts over the festive period, revealing critical insights that underscore the urgent need for targeted government support with the upcoming Spring Budget.

Denbighshire County Council's licensing committee has announced that the licence for the Millbank on Grange Road in Rhyl is being suspended for ten weeks, reports North Wales Live

This marks the first time the total has dropped below 100,000 in the research’s history, according to the latest figures from consultancy group CGA.

A Balham restaurant has lost its late night licence after a court heard its owner was unlawfully employing migrant workers amid claims he was exploiting them by paying sub-standard wages.

A bar in Whitby which was facing calls to have its licence revoked is to close voluntarily until the business is sold.

The Culture, Media and Sport Committee has backed UKHospitality’s call for card payments to be permitted for use on gaming machines.

A new Women’s Night Safety Charter to help improve women’s safety across the region has been launched by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).

The Portman Group’s sixth annual survey in partnership with YouGov shows that young people are the biggest consumers of low and no alcohol alternatives.

A pub's licence is being reviewed amid reports of the manager and staff members fighting with customers.

The Institute of Licensing (IoL) is looking for its next National Chair to help take our work and organisation to the next level. The IoL is the professional body for licensing practitioners across the UK representing circa 5,000 licensing practitioners from local government, police, industry and private practice.

The Pedicabs (London) Bill, that makes provision for regulating pedicabs in public places in Greater London, reaches reports stage.

'Pint’ size wine stocked on Britain’s shelves for the first time ever thanks to new freedoms from leaving the European Union.

It is now illegal to breed, sell, advertise, gift, exchange, and abandon these dogs or let them stray.

"Around 93% of UK grassroots music venues have got a private landlord," according to the Music Venue Trust.

Starting today (1 January 2024), taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) operators must record the income of each and every driver working on their platforms.

More than 1,200 recipients have been awarded for their exceptional achievements, including those in hospitality, local authority and police services. Recipients include Tim Martin (J D Wetherspoon) who was awarded a knighthood, and Martin Hewitt (Police) who was awarded CBE.

A new DCMS fund has been announced to support grassroots music that will offer grants of up to £40k to rehearsal spaces, recording studios, festivals, venues and promoters.

Following announcements of the Government’s commitment to tackle spiking, a series of support information has been published.

The Institute of Licensing (IoL) and LGA have produced training standard guidance which sets out what the LGA and the IoL believe to be a basic level of licensing committee member training.

Nottingham Trent University is exploring the potential of licensing to tackle unlawful practices at hand car washes.

The Local Government Association (LGA) has published updated guidance that aims to help councils to understand the full breadth of issues that should be considered when setting local licence fees in order to meet legal obligations and provide the necessary reassurances to local businesses.

The Gambling Commission has launched a new set of consultations as part of its ongoing work to ensure effective regulation.

The Home Office has issued updated Statutory Guidance guidance under s.182 of the Licensing Act 2003 to include a definition of "spiking".

Spiking will be targeted by police and door staff in a raft of new measures unveiled today (Monday 18 December) by the Home Secretary James Cleverly as the festive party-going season gets into full swing.

New legislation introduces penalty notices for animal health and welfare offences.

The consultation sought views on proposals for the introduction of a specialist licence for private primate keepers in England, through regulations made under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 (AWA).

A Glasgow strip club has been given the go-ahead to sell alcohol until 4am after a health spokeswoman raised concerns about the bar staying open later.

Help your mates to walk away. That’s the message of a new campaign being launched by forces around the UK to prevent deaths and serious injuries caused by a person being assaulted on a night out.

Bolton Council has re-launched a new consultation on the Late-Night Levy.

A pub and nightclub's licence is being reviewed after an under-18s party led to children as young as 13 lying drunk and unconscious on the pavement outside.

The Local Government Association (LGA) and Institute of Licensing (IoL) want to drive consistently high standards in licensing. This training standard guidance has been designed to set out what the LGA and the IoL believe to be a basic level of licensing committee member training, although this does not constitute legal advice and should not be treated as such.

The Welsh Government are consulting on the first phase of developing a national model for regulating animal welfare. The licensing scheme would cover currently unlicensed or minimally regulated animal-related activities.

A taxi driver who preyed on a vulnerable 70-year-old passenger and extorted thousands of pounds from her has had his licence stripped by a council, magistrates and crown court judge.

AN UNLICENSED private hire driver, who was found to be illegally plying for hire in Reading, has been hit with financial penalties of over £900 and given eight penalty points on his licence.

A Bill to amend the Licensing Act 2003 so that licensing hours Orders can be made by negative resolution statutory instrument.

The Night Time Strategy for Wandsworth has been officially launched at Wandsworth Town Hall.

Uber is to launch Black Cabs in London, with drivers signing up from today and the service rolling out in early 2024.

The Scottish Government has acknowledged the ‘high levels of opposition’ to its initial proposals for new restrictions on alcohol marketing, and pledged to go back to the drawing board to find a ‘narrower’ set of measures that might attract wider support.

Edinburgh Council's licensing board has voted to change the city’s policy on festive trading hours from next year, with festive trading to be decided on a year-by-year basis.

The Institute of Licensing, in conjunction with NALEO, have written to the Minister for the Cabinet Office expressing the institute's concern over the lack of progress on a new gov.uk licensing forms system.

IoL Chairman Daniel Davies has confirmed that he will step down from his role as National Chairman of the Institute of Licensing in March 2024 after 9 years at the helm. Dan made the announcement at the National AGM held on 15th November during the National Training Conference.

The Commission has launched the second set of consultations on proposals contained in the White Paper and is calling for views from consumers, gambling businesses and other interested groups.

The Scottish Government will hold more talks with public health stakeholders and the alcohol industry early next year to discuss ways of limiting young people’s exposure to alcohol promotions.

Pub and bar licensing hours could be extended if England, Wales or Scotland reach the semi-finals or final of the Euros next year, subject to consultation.

An undercover investigation from BBC Radio 4 programme ‘File on 4’ has found door supervisors obtaining fraudulent work licences after attending “sham training courses”.

The Commission has released its 2023 Young People and Gambling Report - an annual study which helps understand children’s and young people’s exposure to, and involvement in, all types of gambling.

Letter to the Minister for Security regarding the Draft Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, dated 10 November 2023, expressing concern about ongoing delays.

A man who posed as a taxi driver has admitted raping women he picked up as they made their way home from nights out.

Tewkesbury Borough Council has successfully prosecuted two individuals for offences relating to licensing of private hire vehicles.

The Gambling Commission has set out its next round of consultations implementing the recommendations of the Government's Gambling Act Review White Paper.

East Suffolk Council has successfully defended its decision to revoke the hackney carriage and private hire driver’s licences of a driver who had committed two minor traffic offences within a year of being relicensed following a serious crash.

Updated best practice guidance puts more emphasis on making taxi and PHV services more accessible to disabled people.

IoL Chairman’s Special Recognition Awards have been presented to Suzanne Fisher, Dave Nevitt, Inspector Alan McKeon and PC Diane Park.  The awards were announced and presented at the IoL’s Annual Gala Dinner, last night (Thursday 16th November 2023).

The IoL and Poppleston Allen Solicitors are delighted to announce John Miley as the winner of the 2023 Jeremy Allen Award.

More than 44,000 net outlets have been lost since 2003, equivalent to just over six closures every day for the last two decades.

Scotland’s hospitality trade associations – the Scottish Beer & Pub Association (SBPA), Scottish Licensed Trade Association, Scottish Hospitality Group (SHG), Night Time Industry Association (NTIA) and UKHospitality-Scotland – have joined forces to oppose a proposed cut to festive trading hours.

On 30 June 2023 a West Bromwich man was convicted at Birmingham Magistrates' Court for working illegally as a door supervisor.

The government has introduced legislation to update the Investigatory Powers Act 2016.

The Council have had approval to start another consultation on a late night levy after the initial six-week consultation following recommended changes to the proposed scheme.

Plans to modernise beach hut licences and introduce a transfer fee will help to support the council’s seafront services Brighton & Hove Council said.

A company that claimed to be raising money to fight knife crime has been hit with a hefty fine for illegally collecting money in Manchester.

The law changes today to make possession of nitrous oxide illegal from 8 November 2023 if it is, or is likely to be, wrongfully inhaled, by classifying it as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and placing it in Schedule 5 to the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001. Guidance on the changes has been published by the Home Office.

The King's speech at the formal opening of Parliament on 7th November makes reference to Martyn's Law and new arrangements for London pedicabs.

Latimer Cattery was given an on-the-spot suspension notice after an unannounced inspection by North Northamptonshire Council, accompanied by the RSPCA, earlier this year.

A taxi driver has been convicted of fraud & driving without insurance after using a fake taxi licence since July 2018 following an investigation by Stockport’s Taxi Licensing team.

The Gambling Commission has published further data on the gambling industry in Great Britain.

On Tuesday 17 October, Victor Obi pleaded guilty at Bexley Magistrates' Court for three offences contrary to the Fraud Act 2006.

Glasgow city centre pubs will be able to stay open for an extra hour under a new trial.

A Glasgow venue using dancers body-heat to create sustainable energy was among licensed premises honoured at the city's prestigious Best Bar None Awards.

The LGA has produced a range of tip sheets to support members of licensing committees.

The LGA has updated its guidance on taking a whole council approach to tackling gambling related harms.

The Levelling-Up and Regeneration Bill becomes law after receiving Royal Assent.

"Vigilantism is illegal, and the SIA does not support or agree with licence holders who take the law into their own hands."

The Department for Business & Trade have issued a Call for Evidence in relation to smarter regulation and the regulatory landscape. with a view to understanding what works well and what could be improved in how regulators operate to deliver for the sectors they serve.

The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) today announces the official launch of 'Darkest Before the Dawn'', its 2024 Night Time Economy Manifesto. Written by Philip Kolvin KC in collaboration with key stakeholders, the manifesto is the first of its kind in the UK, and signifies a  milestone in NTIA’s advocacy for a thriving and secure night time economy throughout the United Kingdom.

The Institute of Licensing has submitted a response to the DHSC consultation on the licensing of non-surgical cosmetic procedures in England.

The Government has launched its consultation on the introduction of a statutory levy for gambling operators, as proposed in the gambling white paper published in April this year.

On 13 October 2023 two men from Binbrook were prosecuted at Humber Magistrates' Court. They worked as illegal security in 2020 for G4 Fuels Ltd in Market Rasen.

St Stephen's Church in Arras Square, Ipswich, can now remain open and serve alcohol as late as 02:00 on some days.

Belfast City Council has extended its temporary pavement café licensing scheme until the end of December with consultation now underway on a proposed permanent scheme starting in January 2024.

Figures published by TfL indicates a continued decline of licensed Black Cab licensed and increase in licensed PHVs in the capital.

The LGA has renewed its call for the ability to hold remote meetings as Government signals intention to remove amendment to Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill.

Possession of nitrous oxide, also known as ‘laughing gas’, will be illegal from 8 November 2023.

Shiva foundation has published a report, a comprehensive exploration of the role licensing frameworks and teams can play in addressing modern slavery, offers vital insights including policy recommendations for national and local government and practical guidance for licensing and enforcement officers.

A House of Commons Library Research Briefing on the Draft Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill has been published including an update on the current status of the draft Bill.

A MOLD pub has had its licensed hours cut and live music licence revoked due to anti-social behaviour and noise nuisance amongst other complaints.

On Wednesday 27 September 2023, a Cardiff man was prosecuted at Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates’ Court for working as illegal security.

The PCA has published a report into its findings following its thematic review into how pub companies manage repairs and dilapidations. Engagement with tenants and pub companies will continue to ensure they discover what is driving levels of dissatisfaction and implement strategies for improvement.

Wolverhampton City Council has denied that it has acted improperly by licensing large numbers of minicab drivers who operate in other areas, after a BBC investigation found 9,000 drivers in Greater Manchester - one-third of the region’s total - had licences issued by Wolverhampton.

Under the scheme, the council could refuse drivers a licence if they have more than 7 points on their DVLA licence for minor traffic offences until at least five years after the completion of any sentence imposed, according to a report by the Local Government Lawyer.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence is consulting on guidance to identification, assessment and management.

The Retail of Alcohol Standards Group (RASG), has published best practice guidance to support rapid delivery businesses and to help them prevent minors from obtaining alcohol.

The SIA responds to the issues raised by BBC File on 4 on training malpractice in the delivery of SIA licence-linked qualifications.

The HMRC has published its screening equality impact assessment for tax conditionality licensing in taxi and scrap metal sectors.

Ahead of the King’s Speech on 7th November, Westminster City Council is calling for the Government’s long-promised and much-needed Transport Bill to be part of the legislative agenda.

Shetland Council has opened a 12-week consultation on its Gambling Statement of Licensing Policy.

The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) today announces a significant milestone in its mission to strengthen the nighttime economy across the United Kingdom.

The Welsh Deputy Minister for Climate Change gave an update on the Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle (Wales) Bill

Businesses need to ensure they are prepared for the ban on certain single use plastic items coming into effect this weekend, the Local Government Association said.

On 14 September 2023, at Hastings Magistrates' Court, an Eastbourne company director was prosecuted for supplying illegal security.

The Department of Health and Social Care said "More people could be encouraged to purchase alcohol-free drinks under government proposals to make alternatives to alcoholic drinks more widely available."

Pubs, museums and sports clubs across the United Kingdom have been given vital funding from Government to secure their future for generations to come.

From 2 October 2023, applicants must complete a tax check to renew a relevant licence; licensing bodies will have to obtain confirmation that an applicant has completed a tax check before making a decision on their renewal application.

A new law requiring the operators of short-term lets to have a licence has come into force across Scotland.

The IoL has responded to the DCMS consultation on land based gamblng measures.

We are asking members to help inform the IoL response to the DHSC consultation. Your views are essential in ensuring that our response accurately reflects the potential concerns about the scope of the proposals and what will happen with existing  licensing arrangements across the country.

The IoL has submitted its response to the Scottish Government's consultation on the licensing of activities involving animals.

The Welsh Government has published a summary of responses to the consultation on its White Paper outlining potential reform for Taxis and Private Hire licensing.

The "Alcohol licensing: guidance on temporary off-sales permissions" has been updated.

A taxi driver who sexually assaulted a young woman has been jailed – thanks to the quick-thinking and tenacity of his victim.

Worcestershire's senior coroner "to submit" a ‘prevention of future death report’ to Wychavon Council and Worcestershire Regulatory Services – saying that unless animal licensing improvements are made, there would continue to be a “heightened risk of danger” to those buying unlicensed dogs.

The Gambling Commission has penned a letter to Racing Post’s readers following months of "imbalanced stories", on a daily basis, about the ongoing financial risk consultation and frequently failed to seek a right of reply from the Commission.

Action reinforces UK’s commitment to delivering better animal welfare standards both at home and abroad.

This publication reports on the operation and effect of the minimum pricing provisions during the first five years of the provisions being in force.

The Scottish Government are consulting on whether Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) should be continued as part of the range of policy measures in place to address alcohol related harm, and, in the event of its continuation, the level the minimum unit price should be set going forward.

Two pubs a day have disappeared in England and Wales in the first half of the year, according to government statistics.

The O2 Academy Brixton can reopen once it has met 77 "extensive and robust" conditions "designed to promote public safety".

National Pubwatch (NPW), the voluntary organisation which works to promote safe, secure and social drinking environments, has launched its latest range of free information films to help licensees and pubwatches.

The Gambling Commission has announced the establishment of an Industry Forum to provide the Commission with further insight into the views of operators.

Paul Haywood Dowson was sentenced on Tuesday 12 September at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court.

At a meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Music, UK Music’s Interim Chief Executive Tom Kiehl and Policy and Campaign Officer Dougie Brown presented UK Music’s A Manifesto for Music.

Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC) chairwoman Adrienne Carmichael has written to First Minister Humza Yousaf, warning licensing regulations may be in breach of privacy and data protection legislation.

The Government have published The Alcohol Licensing (Coronavirus) (Regulatory Easements) (Amendment) Regulations 2023 to extend the alcohol licensing regulatory easements relating to off-sales until 31 March 2025.

Department for Business and Trade are seeking views on proposed reforms to the Provision of Services Regulations 2009, under the Retained EU Law programme.

An investigation carried out by Buckinghamshire Council into illegal dog breeding and animal cruelty has led to the prosecution and conviction of two individuals.

The Defra Animal Welfare Committee completed its year-long investigation and report regarding snake enclosure sizes and welfare. Following extensive study of the evidence and consultation including academic scientists, veterinarians, and trade stakeholders, the report decisively concluded that enclosures must be large enough to allow snakes to fully stretch their bodies at will.

The government has confirmed that secondary legislation will be brought forward to control nitrous oxide as a Class C substance.

Stonegate Group, the UK's biggest pub chain, says 800 of its 4,000 pubs will introduce "dynamic pricing" during evenings and weekends.

Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council Licencing Committee has revoked the licence of a public house in Nuneaton town centre on advice from Warwickshire Police.

A "leading" veterinarian has recommended a licensing regime for American Bully XL dogs as an option to be considered.

Jobseekers are now able to access a new Government-backed employment programme designed to fill vacancies in the hospitality sector.

The Government concludes that it is necessary to control nitrous oxide, but recognises that there are legitimate uses for nitrous oxide in many sectors, including medical, industrial and catering. As a result, it is intended to ensure that those wishing to use nitrous oxide for legitimate purposes can continue to do so lawfully and without undue burdens.

The National Anti Fraud Network, that hosts the National Register of Refusals, Revocations and Suspensions, have published a set of frequency answered questions.

The licence was granted for a restricted period of one year, following an objection from Police Scotland.

A consultation by the Government’s senior traffic commissioner includes proposals that would see Scottish football buses to only stops at pubs if a 'substantial meal' is also to be consumed.

The consultation seeks to understand the full range of legitimate uses of nitrous oxide and proposes three options for how to approach a regime of control.

The consultation from the Department of Health and Social Care seeks views on what procedures should be in scope of the licensing scheme for non-surgical cosmetic procedures in England.

Government to seek views on how to make non-surgical cosmetic procedures safer for consumers

The College of Policing have published updated guidance on firearms licensing – which is the process of controlling access to firearms, including shotguns, to keep the public safe.

A Licensing Review Hearing into the immediate future of the Brixton Academy will be held at Lambeth Town Hall on 11th and 12th September.

First Minister Humza Yousaf has ruled out a further delay to short-term let licensing.

Scottish statistics show that there was a 2% increase in alcohol-specific deaths in Scotland.

Remote gambling operators are advised to read this update on the introduction of new remote customer interaction guidance following consultation.

IAS report finds there is strong and consistent evidence that on-trade alcohol availability is related to violence, but evidence regarding a similar association between off-trade availability and violence is more mixed.

A council service criticised by a coroner after a boy was mauled to death by a Rottweiler has said dog licensing is a top priority.

The legislative process to extend the existing tax checks that apply to public sector licensing in England and Wales to similar licences in Scotland and Northern Ireland is now complete.

This guidance relates to the alcohol licensing provisions in the Business and Planning Act 2020 only.

Pubs are calling for more flexible licensing laws during national events, such as Sunday's Women's World Cup final.

In a letter to licensing authorities, Michael Gove said "To help make this happen at this unique national moment, we would welcome any additional support you may be able to give to ensure that, for example, where an application is being rapidly considered to allow a short extension to licensing hours".

The Government's "Tell us Once" service - that lets people report a death to most government organisations in one go - now includes notification in relation to licences and permits.

The Campaign for Pubs has written to the Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, calling on him to wake up and act to change the law to stop the predatory purchasing and asset-stripping of historic pubs, following the appalling case of the Crooked House in Himley, Staffordshire.

An applicant refused a taxi licence by Swansea Council has been ordered to pay £4,000 in costs after his appeal against the decision was thrown out by a judge.

The Home Office has updated the Licensing Act 2003 statutory guidance to reflect the policy change in respect of regulatory easement.

The Commission is "very concerned" at the significant increase in the misuse of statistics around gambling as different parties seek to make persuasive arguments for or against different proposals.

The Business and Planning Act 2020 (Pavement Licences) (Coronavirus) (Amendment) Regulations 2023 has come into force extending pavement licence renewal dates to 30th September 2024.

The Home Office have issued an update today (14/08/23) on the policy change relating to Regulatory Easements.

Recent figures released by NTIA through CGA have shown the huge impact on nightclubs across the UK over the last 3 years, with only 1130 nightclubs left across the UK, which is down substantially since the pandemic and subject to further change in the current economic climate.

The Government has published an alcohol intervention checklist and toolkit for police forces focused on police led interventions.

The Government should blow the full-time whistle on outdated charging regulations that mean the local taxpayer is having to foot the £1 million annual bill for sports clubs to have ground safety certification.

Owners of short-term let properties are being urged to apply for a licence under Scotland’s short-term licensing scheme before the 1 October 2023 deadline.

This public consultation invites views on the operational impact and workability of the newly drafted Code of Practice for the statutory two-tier framework of Out of Court Disposals, as set out in The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts (PCSC) Act 2022.

The Local Government Association has published its response to the "Gambling Related Harm APPG White Paper Inquiry Launch".

A rogue taxi driver who lied about having a previous licence revoked and operated under false pretences for six years has been prosecuted by Blaby District Council

The Professional Standards Authority (PSA) is very concerned about the ongoing, unmanaged risks arising from non-surgical cosmetic treatments such as Botox and fillers. Until the Government’s proposed new licensing system is in place, people using these treatments face a greater risk of harm.

Tourism projects across Wales have won a share of the Welsh Government’s £5 million Brilliant Basics Fund to help deliver a first-class holiday experience.

On Thursday 29 June 2023, a Bournemouth company director, and his business were prosecuted at Poole Magistrates' Court for supplying unlicensed security.

The High Court has decided that IGT lacks the legal standing to bring this legal claim against the Commission and therefore IGT’s claims have been dismissed, meaning it can no longer pursue a claim for damages.

As the volume and complexity of driving licence applications or renewals where the applicant has 1 or more medical condition increases, the government believes that the time is right to review the existing legal framework.

Hekuran Gjeta, 45, who had successfully obtained licenses in 2013, 2016 and 2019, claimed not to have realised he needed to tell the Vale of White Horse District Council when he renewed his licence in 2022 about a 2009 police caution for threatening behaviour or that in 2011 Oxford City Council had refused to grant him a hackney carriage licence.

A report has said that the draft legislation for Martyn's Law, would be ineffective, burdensome on small businesses and hard to apply consistently.

The Home Office have updated the Statutory Guidance issued under Section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003. The amendments are the inclusion of additional material to support licensing authorities and applicants when considering the provision of healthcare and counter terrorism at venues.

Uber and App Drivers & Couriers Union (ADCU) have been successful in a landmark ruling that will change the landscape of the private hire vehicle (PHV) sector.

The Gambling Commission is consulting on a series of proposed changes to the requirements on gambling businesses, through the Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP) and Remote Gambling and Software Technical Standards (RTS).   They are also consulting on proposed changes to arrangements for Regulatory Panels.

The DCMS is consulting  on proposals for the introduction of a maximum stake limit for online slots games in Great Britain.This consultation closes at 11:55pm on 20 September 2023

The DCMS are consulting on proposed measures relating to the land-based gambling sector, including proposals to relax casino rules, amend the ratios relating to machines in arcades and bingo halls, removing the prohibition on using debit cards for gambling machines, reviewing age limits for Cat D machines and reviewing licence fees.

UK Music has published a new report called “Here, There and Everywhere”.

According to reports, the alcohol trade is being surveyed by the Scottish Government on the MUP, with options including keeping it at 50p, or increases to 60p, 70p, 80p or more than 80p.

A taxi driver has been fined and had his licence put under review, after caught picking up fares without a booking and invalid insurance, in an undercover operation by Telford and Wrekin Council.

The Home Office has published a toolkit developed by Alcohol Change UK, to provide additional support to police forces across England and Wales.

Tewkesbury Borough Council has successfully prosecuted three companies for private hire vehicle licensing offences.

The Government had originally confirmed that provisions relating to off-sales and TENs will not be extended, but will revert to the pre-covid position when the BPA measures expire. UPDATE 14TH AUGUST: That position looks set to change as it has been widely reported that the provisions will now be extended and the gov.uk website has been updated to remove the detail previously shown under 'next steps'.

Mr Restat Yilmaz, owner of a late-night refreshment premises known as Speedy Peppers in Worksop, has been prosecuted for "serious" breaches of both the Licensing Act 2003 and the Health and Safety at Work Etc Act 1974.

The Commission said it will "this month" open our first consultations in the implementation of the Government’s Gambling Act Review White Paper.

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has been working with the Government and the Gambling Commission to support the delivery of new safeguards for gambling consumers.

Mr Asmeron Kiflay GHAYM was successfully prosecuted at Oxford Magistrates Court on 30th June 2023 for driving a Private Hire Vehicle without a licence and without valid insurance in November 2022.

Betfred will pay a £3.25 million settlement to socially responsible causes after a Gambling Commission investigation found failings in anti-money laundering (AML) and safer gambling measures in place at the bookmaker’s betting shops.

The Business and Planning Act 2020 (Pavement Licences) (Coronavirus) (Amendment) Regulations 2023 has been signed in to law.

House of Commons Committee report finds that tourism makes a significant contribution to the Welsh economy, providing employment for around 12% of the Welsh workforce.

The Government has published amended late night levy guidance.

A three-day rave at a Georgian manor house has been cancelled by authorities on the day it was due to start.

The DfT has published the 2023 Taxi and Private Hire vehicle statistics including, for the first time, tables that include data for Wales.

A former taxi driver has been ordered to pay nearly £2,000 after driving a hackney carriage without a valid driver’s licence.

A £300,000 fund to provide support for food and drink festivals and events across Wales opens for applications.

The Scottish Government are seeking views on proposals to extend licensing to currently unlicensed animal-related services and update the licensing framework for other currently licensed animal-related services.

Suella Braverman, Secretary of State for the Home Department, has issued a statement in Safer Streets Round Five.

PubAid and the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group have named Fuller's as this year's Corporate Community Hero.

Mr Shaun and Mrs Sue Hunt from Sutton Lane, Hilton were found guilty of unlicensed dog breeding from their home address and ordered to pay fines totalling £24,179.70 at Derby Magistrates’ Court earlier this week (Monday, 26 June).

Seven new gambling addiction clinics will open this summer as NHS services face record demand, chief executive Amanda Pritchard announced today.

Local authorities are being asked to encourage society lottery operators not to sell tickets to anyone under the age of 18, ahead of legislative changes planned to increase the legal age limit.

The Department for Communities, part of the Northern Ireland Executive, has announced that it has opened the window for submission of draft codes of practice which have been produced by a person or group who have a relevant interest in matters surrounding intoxicating liquor in licensed premises and/or registered clubs.

South Wales Police said in a submission to the council that any expansion of the late-night economy would have consequences for policing, and that these consequences would be felt throughout the force's Swansea and Neath Port Talbot division.

Parklife founder Sacha Lord has formally threatened legal action against the government over drug checking at festivals.

The National Audit Office has published an insight report on effective local regulation including the role of licensing as a regulatory tool.

DfT publish revised home-to-school travel statutory guidance including updated guidance on information sharing between licensing and education authorities.

A Coalville shop has been stripped of its licence to sell alcohol after Trading Standards seized more than 1,000 illicit tobacco products in a year.

Queens Lounge, also known as Tasty’s Restaurant, in Oldham Road, has for a number of years been the source of complaints for nearby residents, who have reported significant noise disturbance as well as anti-social behaviour taking place.

The statutory guidance has been updated to help local authorities perform their functions in relation to home to school travel for children of compulsory school age.

The consultation seeks views on seeking views on a number of recommendations made to the government relating to firearms licensing. The consultation closes at 11:59pm on 23 August 2023

LGA survey finds one in 10 councils have had a councillor step down in their authority since May 2021 due to the requirement for them to attend council meetings in-person.

The NTIA & UKDSA have expressed "huge concern" over our ability to protect the public, with an estimated 4,000 frontline security resource supply companies working within the hospitality and night time economy which are untraceable by the Regulator and key Government departments.

In 2021, one in 14 jobs in Scotland was in the food and accommodation service sector, adding around £1.3 billion to the Scottish economy quarterly. Yet, average pay in the hospitality sector is significantly lower than the Scottish average – in fact, accommodation and food services has the lowest median hourly pay of any industry, at £10 in 2022. Across all sectors, the Scottish median hourly wage was £15 for the same time period.

The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman has found that a borough council “failed to communicate” with a taxi driver after it received untrue allegations against him.

In a judgment handed down today, Fordham J has decided that “premises” for the purposes of Part 4, Chapter 3 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, are not an “area” or a “locality” or “any line drawn on a map” but must be somewhere which is objectively identifiable as a distinctive property or a distinctive part of a property.

MPs have rejected an attempt by Labour to force the government to revive its flagship animal welfare bill.

Police Scotland has announced a crackdown on adults illegally purchasing alcohol for minors.

Defra are consulting on proposals to introduce a specialist private primate keeper licensing regime in England, through regulations made under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Sacha Lord founder of Parklife, says the Home Office informed him that a special licence would be needed for this year's Parklife 48 hours before the start of the event, but the application process takes three months.

Wales Online reported that the driver asked to use a customer's toilet in her house before forcing his way into her bedroom and raping her.

The PMA reported that the new multi-site accreditation scheme, the first issued by Best Bar None, covers Greene King’s nationwide.

Parents and carers across the city of Wolverhampton are being urged to carry out important checks before hiring vehicles for Prom night.

The Gambling Commission has published further data showing how gambling behaviour is reacting to current environmental factors in Great Britain.

Government’s plan to grow the creative industries by £50bn and support a million more jobs by 2030, with £77m of new funding for the sector announced.

Seven Stoke-on-Trent taxi drivers have been fined after a police sting found they 'put the public at risk'.

Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities have published the Regulations necessary to extend the Pavement Licensing regime beyond September 2023.

The nomination period for the 2023 award runs from 12th June and nominations are invited by 3rd parties by no later than 8th September 2023

The refreshed five-year strategy remains focussed on quality and safeguarding.

The City of Edinburgh Council’s licensing scheme for short-term lets operators has been deemed unlawful at the Court of Session.

The Home Office's Alcohol Licensing Fees Consultation ends on 22 June 2023.

PPB Counterparty Services Limited, trading as Paddy Power and Betfair, is to pay £490,000 for sending promotional push notifications to devices linked to customers who had self-excluded.

The Public Health (Minimum Price for Alcohol) (Wales) Act 2018 was implemented on the 2nd March 2020. This report provides findings on attitudes and behaviours around alcohol consumption and to perceptions of the introduction of a minimum price for alcohol.

The Scottish Government's Taxi and Private Hire Car Licensing Best Practice Guidance has been published.

Industry body and local government call for action on ‘risky’ procedures and cosmetic treatment market.

The Home Office has published standard terrorism evaluation and draft standard terrorism evaluation guidance that will accompany the Terrorism (Protection of premises) Bill.

More than 100 taxis were randomly spot checked in a recent multi-agency operation near East Midlands Airport.

The rules for completing a tax check changed on 4 April 2022 in England and Wales, and will change on 2 October 2023 in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The Institute of Licensing has published its response to the Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle (Wales) Bill White Paper.

A bill aimed at banning live animal exports and introducing powers to tackle puppy smuggling has been dropped by the government.

The LGA has produced a flyer to promote being on a licensing committee to new councillors.

The LGA has reminded councils to remember to update the Environment Agency with scrap metal licences.

This consultation seeks views on the government’s proposals to introduce penalty notices for animal health and welfare offences in England.

As part of the commission's role as a "people-focussed and evidence-led regulator", it has set out its "Evidence Gaps and Priorities" direction of travel for the next three years.

The Gambling Commission has published its statistics on participation and problem gambling for the year to March 2023 showing that overall participation in any gambling activity (in the last four weeks) remained statistically stable at 44 percent.

The Public Accounts Committee's "Alcohol treatment services" report has concluded that the Government is not taking “appalling” harms from alcohol seriously enough.

A private hire driver must pay nearly £2,000 in fines after being found guilty of a string of driving offences at last year’s Henley Regatta.

Taxi association fails to obtain permission for judicial review of South Cambridgeshire District Council’s CCTV policy

Baker Greggs and Westminster City Council have reached a deal in their dispute over whether an outlet in Leicester Square can sell hot food all night.

The Houses in Multiple Occupation (Asylum-Seeker Accommodation) (England) Regulations 2023 ("the Regulations") will temporarily exempt landlords that enter into a tenancy with asylum seekers after the date in which the Regulations come into force from the obligation to obtain a HMO licence for a period of two years.

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) launched 8 new guidance videos for licence applicants and existing licence holders.

The Government has published its response to the consultation on the level of the late night levy to late night refreshment premises and will now go ahead with the option for local authorities to offer a 30% reduction to LNR providers that qualify for small business rates relief.

The House of Lords has debated the Liaison Committee Report on the Licensing Act 2003. Particular areas of focus include the co-ordination of licensing and planning systems; the agent of change principle; training; access to licensed premises for disabled people; the night-time economy; the pricing and taxation of alcohol; the sale of alcohol airside at airports; application systems; and the national database for personal licence holders.

The Secretary of State’s introduction to the white paper makes a number of bold claims, amongst them being: “we will tackle aggressive advertising”. This article by Gerald Gouriet KC takes a look at the proposals in the white paper relating to gambling advertising generally (aggressive or otherwise), and questions the extent to which it is tackled at all.

Our Animal Welfare Officer has successfully led a prosecution in relation to the operation of an unlicensed dog breeding establishment at Wyke Heather, Normandy, Guildford.

Wealden District Council has prosecuted a Heathfield woman for running an illegal cattery. Mrs Mandy Papps, of 39 Swaines Way Heathfield pleaded guilty to Hastings Magistrates Court, admitting to running a cattery business at her home without a licence from Wealden District Council.

In a blog post, Tim Miller, the Commission's Executive Director for research and policy, explains what the Commission will do to implement the Gambling Act Review White Paper.

Leeds’ licensing and public health teams worked together to develop an alcohol licensing data matrix. This matrix demonstrates where a locality is at risk of health harms from licensing activity by ranking localities against each other through comparing different data sets.

Following the tragic Manchester Arena terror attack in 2017, at which 22 people lost their lives, Manchester City Council proactively took steps to embed the principles of Martyn’s Law within the existing licensing framework to enhance and promote public safety in places and spaces where licensable activities take place in Manchester.

A Maidenhead night club has won permission to judicially review a decision by the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead to give planning permission for a regeneration scheme that would include its site.

This consultation is aimed at organisations or individuals that manufacture, sell or use nitrous oxide as part of their business or for those who use it in a personal capacity where it is not used for its psychoactive effects.

These regulations amend the current regulations to take account of the changes required to the existing form of licence, as a result of provisions within The Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021.

The Institute of Licensing's response to the Home Office's consultation on Licensing Act 2003 Regulatory Easements.

Tamworth Borough Council has successfully prosecuted former White Lion pub landlord for health and safety breaches which caused a customer to fall down cellar stairs on the 6 March 2022, causing injuries requiring surgery.

‘Martyn’s Law’ (The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill) has been published along with Explanatory Notes, an Impact Assessment and a letter from Tom Tugendhat, Security Minister, to Dame Diana Johnson, Chair of the Home Affairs Select Committee about the Bill.

This white paper sets out the government’s plan for reform of gambling regulation following the review of the Gambling Act 2005.

From Thursday (27 April 2023), all Licensing Authorities in England are mandated to use the NR3S under the Taxi and Private Hire (Safety and Road Safety) Vehicle Act 2022. For Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, use of the database remains voluntary.

GambleAware has launched a new campaign to tackle the stigma around gambling harms, after research showed 75 per cent of those who experience problems with gambling don’t feel able to open up to family and friends.

Applications are now open for the RSPCA’s PawPrints awards, which recognises public bodies who go the extra mile for animals and their welfare.

The Government have published a consultation on a registration scheme for short-term lets in England, accompanied by the findings of a call for evidence held in 2022 on the development of a registration scheme.

Report and recommendations of the independent review carried out by Simon Bailey CBE, QPM.

Bakery chain Greggs is seeking mediation over a licensing dispute with Westminster City Council ahead of court action due next month.

The Licensing Act 2003 (Coronation Licensing Hours) Order 2023 passes the last hurdle under the draft affirmative procedure.

The Institute of Licensing has published its response to the Welsh Government's consultation on Special Procedures Consultation.

A District Judge has dismissed a challenge by a south London nightclub to the use of a remote hearing procedure by the London Borough of Lewisham to revoke its premises licence.

New amendments relating to virtual meetings by local authorities and transferring control of taxi and private hire vehicle licensing to both combined authorities and upper-tier authorities.

The BBC reported that a bar has kept its licence after accusations of underage drinking and claims of sexual harassment.

Valesha’s Nightclub in Walsall has had its premises licence revoked following the murder of Akeem Francis-Kerr inside the venue shortly after 5am on 11 March 2023.

Silks, a south London nightclub, has appealed against a decision by the London Borough of Lewisham revoking its premises licence, following a number of incidents of violent disorder at the premises last year.

Updated to reflect the new duties due to come into force 27 April 2023.

Poppleston Allen reported that Bolton Council have resolved to consult on a Late Night Levy.

It's been widely reported that more than 150 pubs have been forced to close their doors in English and Welsh communities due to spiking energy bills.

The Home Office is conducting an "informal survey" of Licensing Authorities in England and Wales to determine the costs associated with alcohol licences.

People who work with children in England will be legally required to report child sexual abuse or face prosecution under government plans. These plans will apply to taxi and private hire licensing.

British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) urges Government to ensure suppliers offer a renegotiation window for pubs and breweries locked into extortionate energy contracts.

The programme aims to tackle the highest level of sexual offences in London, focusing on the evening and night-time economy and forms part of the council’s wider Night Safety in Westminster campaign.

Three pubs have been named as overall winners in the Community Pub Hero Awards, the national competition organised by PubAid and the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group (APPBG) and sponsored by Matthew Clark.

Forest of Dean District Council (FODDC) has prosecuted an individual for offences relating to the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Cotswold District Council has prosecuted an individual for offences relating to the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Two online operators 32Red Limited and Platinum Gaming Limited, both part of Kindred Group plc, will pay a £7.1 million penalty for social responsibility and anti-money laundering failures.

The Anti-social Behaviour Action Plan sets out the government’s approach to stamping out anti-social behaviour and restoring the right of people to feel safe in, and proud of, their local area.

Three gambling firms owned by William Hill are to pay penalties of £19.2m for failing to protect consumers and weak anti-money laundering controls.

This is a consultation on the relationship between community safety partnerships and police and crime commissioners, and the expansion of antisocial behaviour powers.

DEFRA have updated the statutory guidance, moving back the deadline for all inspectors to be qualified. The updated guidance makes provision to inspections by individuals who can show evidence of at least one year of experience in licensing and inspecting animal activities businesses, providing they are enrolled on a course leading to a Level 3 certificate qualification or equivalent to be completed by 1 October 2023 and granted by a body recognised and regulated by Ofqual.

Government has announced the publication of the Tourism Recovery Plan Progress Report, which sets out how the government has addressed the commitments made in 2021 to support the tourism industry.

The Licensing Authority Bulletin is published every 3 months to update licensing authorities with news and relevant updates from the Gambling Commission.

Birmingham City Council Licensing Enforcement received a complaint about overcharging, alleging that the driver tried to charge £25 for a 4-mile journey.

This briefing note examines the workings and impact of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (“ROA 1974”), as amended and its application to licensing, together with the use of the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). It is intended to assist licensing professionals, lawyers, councillors and applicants and licensees, but does not constitute legal advice.

NAFN has issued revised NR3S guidance following confirmation that the taxi database will be the designated database under the Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Act (TPHV) 2022.

Institute of Licensing chair, Dan Davies, has appeared before the House of Lords Liaison Committee that held an inquiry into the regeneration of seaside towns and communities.

The council is calling on pet owners to make sure that they are employing licensed carers for their pets when on holiday.

The Institute of Licensing has published its response to the Scottish Government's consultation on restricting alcohol advertising and promotion.

The Institute of Licensing has published its response to the Welsh Government's consultation on a statutory licensing scheme for all visitor accommodation providers in Wales.

A SCRAP metal dealer may lose its licence after being fined £400,000 for illegally dumping waste reports the Local Democracy Reporter.

“Trailblazer” deeper devolution deal, agreed between the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and the UK government.

This measure extends existing tax checks for taxi and scrap metal licences in England and Wales to licences in Scotland and Northern Ireland from October 2023.

The “superpower” of the industry is when it works together, delegates heard at the National Pubwatch Conference, which was held in Swindon this week. This was the view of BII CEO Steve Alton who said that “Collaboration and partnership are key” for the pub industry and late-night economy.

Section 20 ‘Prohibition of loyalty schemes,’ of the Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 is due to come into effect on 6 April 2023.

Plans to modernise taxi services across Wales have been outlined in a white paper on the Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle (Wales) Bill published by the Welsh Government today (Thursday 9 March).

The IoL has responded to the Scottish Government Consultation: Restricting alcohol advertising and promotion.

We are delighted to confirm that Daniel Davies has been re-elected as National Chairman for a further 3-year period.

A review commissioned by the government has stopped short of recommending a ban on laughing gas after examining the dangers of the substance.

Driver found to be operating without a licence fined £982 following investigation by licensing officers.

This consultation sets out for consultation proposals on a number of regulatory easements, including off-sales and Temporary events notices (TENs).

City of York Council has settled a wheelchair user's judicial review claim, which argued the local authority's pavement licensing policy was discriminatory.

An interactive map detailing events taking place to celebrate the Coronation will be launched this week by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport

The consultation saw substantial support from hospitality sector and the public.

This strategy was published in July 2021, and sets out how the UK government will work with the hospitality sector, as it reopens and recovers from COVID-19, to build the sector’s longer term resilience.

The Chairman of the Manchester Arena Inquiry has published Volume Three of his report into the death of the 22 victims of the attack on 22nd May 2017.

The Secretary of State for Transport, The Rt Hon Mark Harper MP, has written to licensing authorities to confirm the creation of the National Register for Revocations, Refusals and Suspensions (NR3S) expanding the scope of NR3 hosted by the National Anti-Fraud Network. (NB: Currently applicable to England only)

Liverpool City Council has resolved to continue with its Late Night Levy, noting that it represents a "valuable source of income" for initiatives targeting problems associated with the late-night economy.

Walsall Council’s Licensing and Safety Committee voted unanimously not to seek further statistics and evidence.

New Clause tabled by Baroness Mcintosh of Pickering (Conservative) would enable local authorities to meet virtually.

The National Association of Local Councils (NALC) has urged the House of Lords to back amendments to the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill that would allow councils to hold remote meetings and suspend councillors who breach the code of conduct, amongst other measures.

Liverpool City Council’s Licensing Committee met last week and decided to retain the Levy and not to propose any changes to the Levy.

Figures obtained by the BBC suggest that while there were nearly 5,000 reports of spiking-related incidents to forces in 2021/22, there were just 40 convictions in four years.

NTIA and Savenightife CIC have joined forces with Safeguarding Nightlife to launch the new Night Safe Champion Programme, which will focus on the key challenges faced in the nighttime economy and hospitality communities.

NTIA 's night time economy report shows independent businesses and culture most at risk.

Poppleston Allen reported Walsall Council is considering whether to consult upon the possible implementation of an EMRO.

Saturday 6 May marks the official coronation of His Majesty The King at Westminster Abbey. Given the last coronation was held in 1953, it is anticipated there will be significant local, national and international interest in this celebratory, solemn and historic moment.

A group of lap dancers and adult entertainment venues have won a legal battle to overturn a council decision ‘banning’ strip clubs in Edinburgh.

A third Hackney carriage driver has been convicted of illegally plying for hire and at last summer’s Henley Regatta.

Pub and bar bankruptcies across the UK were near the highest level in a decade with more than 500 businesses folding last year, data from the Insolvency Service has found.

The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) Nitrous Oxide working group has issued a call for evidence to help in their formulation of advice to government.

The High Court has allowed a claim for judicial review brought against a local authority’s decision to impose no limit on the number of strip clubs it would license.

The JCCP, British Beauty Council, and the Chartered Institute for Environmental Health (CIEH) have received assurance from the UK Government that it’s committed to the licensing of the non-surgical aesthetics sector in England.

The increasingly available evidence of cruel practices involving pets has prompted the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee to launch an inquiry today into Pet welfare and abuse.

In response to a question in Parliament, The Parliamentary Under-Secretary at the Department for Transport indicated support for mandatory disability awareness training.

Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council was entitled to revoke the licence of a pub that stayed open in breach of pandemic-era regulations, the High Court has ruled.

The Institute of Licensing (IoL), Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI), and Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) are celebrating National Apprenticeship Week by encouraging employers to explore the opportunity of apprentices and by promoting Regulatory Compliance Officer apprenticeships.

DfT highlight change in vehicle type approval standards from 1st January 2023 that may impact the specifications which licensing authorities publish for vehicles to be used for taxis and private hire vehicles and other purposes.

In October 2022, IoL President James Button wrote to the DfT outlining concerns at the current arrangements which require separate DBS checks for licensed drivers for normal hackney carriage / private hire work and for home to school transport.

The Homeland Security Group has provided a factsheet for organisations in order to socialise what the law will do, what the tier system is and how the law will be managed.

Licensees who want to set up or know more about the issues surrounding Pubwatches can get all the information they need by watching a new range of short information films on NPW FAQ YouTube page.

The Office for National Statistics has published night-time economy statistics for the UK in 2022 with a focus on understanding the people who work during the evening and night across the UK.

Members of the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee have recommended expanding the BBC's Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) and called for a review of the statutory notices rules amid a warning that local news offerings will continue to decline without Government support.

A Birmingham City Council licensing sub-committee has revoked a nightclub's licence in light of a fatal stabbing that took place at the venue.

Wales is set to become the first UK nation to introduce a mandatory national licensing scheme for tattoo artists and those working in body piercing, semi-permanent make-up, acupuncture and electrolysis, Chief Medical Officer Frank Atherton has announced.

Gambling Minister, Paul Scully's, speech at the Betting and Gaming Council Annual General Meeting ahead of the forthcoming publication of the Gambling Act Review.

A ban on the sale and use of, Nitrous Oxide, also known as "laughing gas", in England and Wales is being considered by the government.

A Buckinghamshire hackney carriage driver has been convicted of illegally plying for hire at Henley Regatta.

A five-month Home Office trial of the digital ID app developed by 1account, a leading provider of age verification and digital ID technology, has shown overwhelming acceptance by clubgoers at REKOM UK’s Tru Camberley venue in Surrey.

Guidance for local authority inspectors on licensing activities involving animals.

Millions of people across the country and the Commonwealth are invited to celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort over a weekend of special events.

Office for Health Improvement and Disparities publish figures showing that the number of people accessing drug and alcohol treatment services has increased in the last year.

A town centre restaurant has had its licence modified after selling alcohol to underage customers.

A single fee for taxi licences across North Yorkshire is set to be introduced by the county’s new council.

Lambeth Council yesterday suspended the O2 Academy Brixton’s premises licence for a further three months following last month’s tragic crush.

The Cabinet Digital Office have issued a statement confirming the extension of the gov.uk online licensing forms system.

A taxi driver has been fined for refusing to pick up a blind couple as they had their guide dogs with them.

Updates to Guidance on commonly raised issues in relation to the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 have been published.

The Scottish Government has today (13 January 2023) published the 2nd edition of Guidance to Licensing Boards.

Twenty-four taxi companies in Rochdale have formed a single co-operative organisation called Tiger 2000. The new structure means any car operated by any of the 24 firms will be able to operate across the borough instead of in their core areas.

Home Office Minister Sarah Dines MP has confirmed in a letter to the Home Affairs Committee that following careful consideration, the Government has concluded that a new offence is not required and will not be bringing in new legislation.

Practitioners will be aware that in recent years, the Gambling Commission has handed down some significant financial penalties for breaches of operating licences. In an appeal recently heard by the First Tier Tribunal, Daub, a subsidiary of the Rank Group, challenged a penalty imposed by the Commission. The appeal was dismissed, and the judgment contains some helpful analysis for operators and their advisers.

A central London sexual entertainment venue (SEV), Vanity, has had its licence suspended after several customers claimed to have lost a total of £250,000 after being spiked.

The Government are consulting on the level of charge to be applied to late night refreshment premises in England and Wales. This is in order to commence legislative changes made to the late night levy.

The Home Office has issued a fact sheet, setting out more detail on the proposed Protect Duty.

Melton Mowbray removed their cumulative impact policy and adopted a new Statement of Licensing Policy.

In accordance with the IoL's election policy, IoL members are invited to submit expressions of interest or nominations for the position of National Chairman. Current Chairman Daniel Davies has confirmed that he is happy to continue in post subject to re-election.

Transport for London (TfL) has announced that as of 1 January 2023 all private hire vehicles licensed for the first time will be required to be zero-emission capable.

Tewkesbury Borough Council has prosecuted an individual for offences relating to the Fraud Act 2006. The Tewkesbury Borough resident, Sarah Dawes from Bishops Cleeve was alleged to have been breeding and selling dogs from her home address.

The Government has published the key findings following trials of technology use for age verification in alcohol sales. A potential challenge to the use of digital proof of age is the mandatory condition set out in paragraph 3 of the Schedule to the Licensing Act 2003 (Mandatory Licensing Conditions) Order 2010, which requires presentation of identification bearing a holographic mark or ultraviolet feature upon request when purchasing alcohol.

The nightclub where a 23-year-old footballer died during a knife attack may be forced to close as an urgent request to review its licence has been scheduled.

A private hire driver has been convicted of illegally plying for hire and driving without the right insurance at Henley Regatta.

The Brixton 02 Academy's licence has been suspended as it emerged concerns were raised about the strength of the front doors nearly three years before a fatal crush at a concert.

When announcing Martyn's Law, Suella Braverman MP, The Home Secretary, also updated Parliament on Sensitive Information in Licensing Applications (SILA).

A licensed driver whose licence was revoked by Winchester Council for touching a woman 'inappropriately', has lost his appeal.

MPs are to examine the Government’s approach to the regulation of gambling, following warnings that more needs to be done to protect people, including children, from gambling-related harm.

The Home Office has today (20 December 2022) issued revised s.182 guidance under the Licensing Act 2003.

New legislation will be introduced to tighten security at venues. Dubbed Martyn's Law, after one of the victims of the Manchester Arena bombing, the rules will cover all of the UK and require venues and local authorities to have preventative action plans against terror attacks, the Government said.

The freeze to UK alcohol duty rates has been extended six months to 1 August 2023, the government announced today (19 December 2022).

In this statement by Suella Braverman, the Home Secretary includes her intention to introduce SILA (sensitive information in licensing applications) alongside her confirmation of the Protect Duty (Martyn's Law). SILA will be introduced through amendments to the Licensing Act 2003 to 'align to the similar system already in place within planning legislation (Sensitive Information in Planning Applications (SIPA)), to reduce the risk of misuse of sensitive information in the public domain.'

The Welsh Government has launched a consultation on establishing a statutory licensing scheme for all visitor accommodation providers in Wales.

The Local Government Association said “Now, more than ever, we need a concerted approach to tackling the issue of alcohol-related harms. Trends have worsened, and a proactive effort is needed to turn the tide."

As part of Cardiff & Vale’s drink drive campaign, South Wales Police alongside twenty-five pubs and restaurant have launched their DES (Designated Driver) Scheme.

The government has launched a consultation on proposals to relax the licensing hours for His Majesty the King’s coronation.

The Home Office are consulting on proposals to update the Section 182 Guidance to make reference to drink spiking. This follows the Home Affairs Committee report published in April 2022, and the subsequent Government reponse to the report recommendations (published in July 2022).

Glasgow City Council has passed a motion requiring hospitality businesses to provide free and safe transport home for late night workers after 23:00. Source: BBC News

Greene King is set to become the first pub operator to have its entire managed house estate accredited by Best Bar None, the Home Office and industry supported scheme that recognises and promotes the highest possible operating standards and provides customers with the reassurance of a well-managed environment in which to socialise.

Home Secretary announces support for Private Member’s Bill to make public sexual harassment an offence. The bill will lead to harsher sentences for perpetrators.

The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) has updated the rateable values of all business, and other non-domestic, property in England and Wales.

Lawyers in Local Government (LLG) and the Association of Democratic Services Officers (ADSO) have said they are “extremely dismayed” at the continued delay in the Government’s response to its call for evidence in respect of remote meeting attendance for local authorities.

The Scottish Government is making plans to extend the deadline by which hosts of short-term lets in Scotland, including Orkney, need to get a licence by six months.

Researchers from the University of Portsmouth are looking for people who work in the night-time economy to take part in a study about violence against women.

Tewkesbury Borough Council has successfully prosecuted two individuals for offences relating to the Animal Welfare Act 2006, Animal Licensing and Fraud Act offences.

The National Counter Terrorism Security Office has worked closely with The Events Industry Forum on the Purple Guide, offering considerations and advice that event staff can take to counter terrorism.

An unlicensed dog breeder from Huddersfield has been fined £10,000. The case originally came to light following a visit to the property by Council Officers dealing with another matter.

A former taxi driver has been ordered to pay almost £2,000 after admitting to driving an unsafe vehicle while his own licence had expired.

The Autumn Statement 2022 sets out the decition by the government to delay the implementation of Tax Conditionality in Scotland and Northern Ireland until October 2023.

Philip Evans, previously councillor for Conwy County Borough Council has been presented with the IoL's 2022 Chairman's Special Recognition in recognition of his exceptional contribution to licensing and his role as a licensing councillor.

The Institute of Licensing and Poppleston Allen Solicitors were delighted to announce Yvonne Lewis as winner of the 2022 Jeremy Allen Award for excellence in licensing.

The Institute of Licensing is delighted to announce that Susanna FitzGerald KC has agreed to join Jon Collins and Philip Kolvin KC as our Patron.

This consultation by the Scottish Government seeks views on potential restrictions to alcohol advertising and promotion in Scotland. The consultation will close on 9 March 2023.

A new policy approach for gambling premises in Westminster will help reduce the risk of people who may be vulnerable to gambling related harm in the city, Westminster City Council has announced.

One nightclub is closing every two days in a trend which threatens to see half of Britain’s remaining venues shut within a year, the industry has warned.

A LEICESTER bar at the centre of concerns about crime, disorder and noise problems has had its licence suspended after failing to overturn new licensing conditions which had been put in place to protect the public.

The Government has confirmed there will be no licensing extension.

The Government has issued its response to the House of Lords Liaison Committee's report following up the Select Committee's post legislative scrutiny report on the Licensing Act 2003.

If Uber is successful in its case against Sefton Council, the cost of private hire journeys would jump by 20%.

Bradford Magistrates’ Court found Usman Raees guilty in his absence of failing to provide information to the Security Industry Authority (SIA).

The Local Government Association has published a range of resources and handbooks to help councillors with their role sitting on licensing committees.

Ireland’s Health Minister Stephen Donnelly has said he did raise public health concerns with his Government colleagues before they decided to relax the country’s licensing laws.

The Alcohol Licensing (Coronavirus) (Regulatory Easements) (Amendment) Regulations 2022 , which was laid in parliament in September and came into effect on 29 September, has passed unopposed in both Houses, extending the off-sales provision in section 11(13) of the Business and Planning Act 2020 (modification of premises licences to authorise off-sales for limited period) until September 2023.

Volume 2 of the Manchester Arena Inquiry report has been published. This report sets out the chair’s findings and recommendations on the emergency response to the attack.

DEFRA has extended the survey deadline for its survey to inform the review of the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 (LAIA regulations).

A successful motion, calling for councillors to agree that a report be presented to the council's Regulatory Committee and that the committee re-examine the issue, has been agreed by Edinburgh City councillors.

Reading Pubwatch has been given the top accolade as the National Pubwatch of the Year at a glittering event, sponsored by pub chain JD Wetherspoon, at the House of Lords last night.

Tourism and recreation experienced the fastest fall in output of any UK business sector last month, the latest data shows.

Heaven nightclub in Newmarket has licence renewed despite objections including from MP Matt Hancock

Alcohol licensing data to year ending March 2022 has been published by the Home Office.

Guildford's licensing team has won a Bronze Animal Activity Licensing Award in the RSPCA PawPrints Awards for the fourth year running.

The Institute of Licensing has written to Baroness Vere to highlight the complexities faced by licensed drivers who undertake 'normal' taxi/PH work and school contracts.

With just a few weeks to go until the start of the 2022 World Cup, British pubs are getting ready to welcome fans to enjoy the beautiful game, and new guidance has been released to help them prepare

Giles Watling said the current licence issuer, the Marine Management Organisation, is ‘not fit for purpose’ with too much centralised power.

Edinburgh’s Licensing Board is seeking views on the rules and requirements for licenses to sell alcohol - whether it’s sold for consumption on a premises (on-sales) or to take away (off-sales).

Cabbies in Nottingham can now wirelessly charge their electric taxis as part of a pioneering Government-backed trial which underlines the city’s ambitions to become the UK’s first carbon neutral city by 2028.

The Times reported that a combination of train strikes, Covid and hybrid working is making life hard for many of London’s restaurants

The Welsh Government is encouraging local authorities to apply for its latest round of Transforming Towns loan funding.

A new licensing scheme for short-term let hosts opens today [1 October], aiming to ensure consistent safety standards while reinforcing the positive reputation of Scottish tourism and hospitality.

A County Durham man has been ordered to pay over £800 after operating a private hire vehicle without having a current private hire operators' licence.

Liverpool City Council have begun consultation on the existing Late Night Levy and whether it should be varied or removed.

A private hire driver from Andover has been ordered to pay more than £400 after pleading guilty to refusing to take a customer’s assistance dog.

An unlicensed dog breeder from west Norfolk was prosecuted in court on Wednesday 28 September 2022.

The adjustments to right to work checks introduced on 30 March 2020 as part of the response to coronavirus (COVID-19), has ended on 30 September 2022.

High Court ruled Wokingham Borough Council was not liable for 'psychiatric damage' as a consequence of the negligent advice being given regarding the suitability of a vehicle purchased but subsequently found unsuitable for licensing.

A new place for all taxis and private hire related guidance and information on gov.uk.

In DEFRA's updated Animal activities licensing statutory guidance for local authorities, it confirmed animal inspectors do not need their Level 3 Certificate for Animal Inspectors course by 1 October 2022.

The Institute is undertaking a review of its Suitability Guidance to ensure that it remains current, and to enable consideration of additional information which may usefully be included.

Students heading off for freshers week are being warned to look out for drink spiking.

The LGA has developed a councillor handbook on public protection services, which provides an overview of council environmental health, trading standards and licensing services.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) are undertaking a post implementation review of the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 (the LAIA Regulations) to understand if the regulations have achieved their objectives and if any improvements are needed.

DEFRA are gathering information to inform the Kept Animals Bill and would be keen to hear from councils about any challenges you anticipate around the introduction of a primate licensing scheme.

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust has developed a short survey to gather stakeholders views about the harassment of workers in the night-time economy. This survey will inform the Trust’s work on preventing sexual harassment.

New regulations extending the period during which licensed premises can benefit from an automatic permission to provide off-sales have been made today (England and Wales).

Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng has scrapped planned increases in the tax paid on beer, wine, spirits and cider.

A review was commissioned by the States of Guernsey after widespread concerns about the low number of taxis operating, and poor reliability.

In recent days, it was reported that Sefton Council had a two-year delay in processing taxi and private hire licence applications, but the council has set the record straight in response.

A "popular" Northampton nightclub face premises licence revocation following a licence review by Northamptonshire Police.

The National Police Chiefs' Council have produced new messaging on what to do if you’ve been spiked.

The Local Government has produced a guidance note drawing on examples of good practice in response to spiking allegations.

Tendring District Council are urging residents to ensure their "doggy day care" providers are licensed.

Nottingham City Council’s Late Night Levy is to be revoked from next month in a bid to ease financial pressure on local businesses.

In a statement, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) said it is writing to around 4,000 taxi drivers using taxi booking apps, who may not have declared all their income.

Warning UK's live music face closures with spiralling energy bills, with some venues seeing increases of up to 1,400%.

Almost two thirds of British hospitality businesses are currently 'in the red', according to research from the BBPA, the British Institute of Innkeeping, and UK Hospitality.

Lawyers in Local Government has issued guidance to its members on the holding of local authority meetings during the period of mourning for the Queen.

It has been reported that Camelot will withdraw its appeal over lifting of an automatic suspension, allowing the Gambling Commission to grant the licence to Allwyn Entertainment UK. Instead, Camelot will pursue a damages claim over the National Lottery licence award.

A man has been convicted and ordered to pay more than £1,000 after unlawfully continuing to work as a taxi driver despite having been refused a new licence following a series of speeding offences.

The Institute of Licensing has paid tribute to Her Majesty the Queen following the sad announcement of her death today, 8 September 2022.

German ride-hailing firm 'Free Now' has been handed a licence “longer than any major competitor” to operate in London.

An off-licence which claims to be the "smallest in the UK" has set up shop in a traditional red telephone box.

An SIA investigation supported by NaCTSO has helped sites and premises in understanding the key approaches to take to make sure the personnel hired to protect their sites are managed and vetted effectively.

Breweries and industry bodies have called for "immediate government intervention" on sky-high energy bills this winter.

Tim Smith was appointed as the new industry chair of the Food and Drink Sector Council today (Tuesday 30 August).

The Welsh Government’s £108 million Cultural Recovery Fund was fundamental to the survival of many cultural organisations in Wales during the COVID-19 pandemic which helped safeguarded 2,700 FTE jobs, a new report has shown.

Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd has launched a public consultation on a 2022 taxi fares review.

A North West Leicestershire taxi firm owner must pay over £8,000 in fines and costs for allowing an unlicensed driver to carry out bookings illegally.

Five organisations representing the UK hospitality sectors have today (15 August) joined forces to write an open letter to HM Government calling for urgent action on energy prices.

Scotland’s three major hospitality trade associations, the Scottish Beer & Pub Association (SBPA), Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA), and UKHospitality Scotland (UKHS) have called on the Scottish Government not to exclude pubs from their current proposals which would see other hospitality premises, like restaurants have greater flexibility with on-street seating.

The Gambling Commission has published further data showing how gambling behaviour is reacting to current environmental factors in Great Britain.

This briefing outlines what the Act covers and how it will impact local government.

Following a meeting of Leeds City Council’s licensing committee, councillors have recommended changes to the taxi and private hire driver licence standards in relation to minor motoring offences.

Coventry City Council took the decision to apply to the First Tier Property Tribunal for a banning order,against the landlord who has a long history of poor property management and has been convicted of contravening housing legislation on several occasions. The Tribunal have ruled banning the landlord from letting property in England for a period of 15 months.

In the Health and Social Care Committee's latest report, "The impact of body image on mental and physical health" it has recommended that the Government make it a priority to introduce the licensing regime for non-surgical cosmetic procedures by July 2023.

Updated to reflect the change to the Business and Planning Act Regulations 2022.

New research for industry body PubAid reveals a ‘disconnect' between pubgoers' love of their local and their appreciation of it as a centre for charity fundraising and grassroots sport support.

Britain has 20% fewer nightclubs than it had when the country first went into lockdown in March 2020.

The Pubs Code Adjudicator has today published its strategy outlining its focus over the next three years

The Government has launched a public sexual harassment consultation and is interested, amongst other things, to explore links to taxis and nighttime economies.

Greggs has been blocked from opening its flagship store in London's West End through the night after the council said its plans were "half-baked" the BBC reported.

ProtectUK has launched an App giving users access real-time information from CT Policing plus the latest protective security advice.

Businesses and workers, particularly those in the gig economy, will benefit from greater clarity over their employment status, thanks to new guidance published by the government today (Tuesday 26 July).

The Government has launched a technical consultation extending tax checks to licences in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The Court of Appeal has granted permission for Camelot and IGT to appeal a High Court ruling that lifted an automatic suspension that prevented the Gambling Commission from formally awarding the fourth National Lottery licence to Allwyn Entertainment UK (Allwyn).

Temporary changes, brought in to help pubs, cafes and restaurants take advantage of the warm weather and operate outside, are extended and will be made permanent next year.

The Times reported that a relaxation of alcohol by volume (ABV) limits to help people cut down on their alcohol intake by helping brewers make low-strength options more appealing.

The Government has extended the period during which the Fast Track Pavement Licence provisions continue to apply until 30th September 2023.

The phrase “plying for hire” consists of 3 words. In the first case on its meaning to come before the Court of Appeal since the phrase was enacted 150 years ago, the Court has construed it definitively. Practitioners may be relieved to learn that in doing so the Court upheld long-standing orthodoxies.

Temporary changes, brought in to help pubs, cafes and restaurants take advantage of the warm weather and operate outside, are extended and will be made permanent next year.

A Hackney Carriage taxi driver has been disqualified from driving and ordered to pay almost £3,000 after plying for trade illegally at Henley Regatta.

New legislation to make it unlawful for employers to withhold tips from staff.

In its response, the Government welcomes the majority of the Committee’s recommendations.

Government’s call for evidence has unveiled a link between loot boxes and gambling harms, as well as wider mental health, financial and problem-gaming harms

In correspondence seen by the Institute, the Home Office confirmed "it would be appropriate to extend the off-sales provision for a further year".

The DfT has published the latest statistics and data about the number of licensed taxis and private hire vehicles in England and Wales, including the number designed to be accessible for disabled people.  The report shows that between 2021 and 2022, the total number of licensed vehicles increased slightly, while the number of licensed drivers continued to fall.

The draft national transport delivery plan published on 13 July 2022 includes references to intended developments for hackney carriage and private hire licensing. The draft plan includes references to planned national licensing standards, enforcement powers, national licensing databases, public registers, decarbonisation plans and simplication of fares.

The House of Lords Liaison Committee publishes; The Licensing Act 2003: post-legislative scrutiny Follow-up report.   The report makes a number of  recommendations concerning coordination between planning and licensing, the Agent of Change principle, Councillor and Police training, access to licensed premises by disabled people, alcohol pricing and taxation, airside licensing, online applications (gov.uk), and a national database for personal licence holders.

Consultation overwhelmingly backs tighter regulation of non-surgical cosmetic procedures in Scotland according to the Scottish Government.

UK driving licence now exists on the Government Gateway as an evidence category for all customers across services that use Identity Verification.

LGA "overall" welcomes this best practice guidance in its response to the consultation, saying "It provides helpful clarity on some complex issues in taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) licensing and will be a useful resource for both licensing authorities and the taxi and PHV trade."

The RSPCA said "public opinion proves to be strong on the issue as last year more than 9,000 RSPCA supporters called upon their local authority to make a change and stop this practice from happening on their land."

The RSPCA asked all 22 local authorities in Wales - under the Freedom of Information Act - how they are currently tackling illegal puppy breeding in their respective counties.

There were 39,970 pubs in June, down by more than 7,000 since 2012, said real estate consultancy Altus Group.

DLUHC update on Sensitive Information in Licensing Applications, changes to easement of off-sales of alcohol & transferring taxi and private hire vehicle licensing to upper-tier and combined authorities.

The Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee (DPTAC) response to Taxi and private hire vehicle best practice guidance.

New laws will ensure the 13.7 million disabled people in England, Scotland and Wales receive the assistance they need and will not be charged over the odds when using taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs).

New legislation to control the sale and use of fireworks will improve public safety and benefit communities for years to come.

The Gambling Commission can proceed with the award of the fourth licence to operate the National Lottery after a High Court judge lifted the automatic suspension which arose on the issue of two procurement challenges.

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority is "keen" to work with the Department for Transport (DfT) to devise a new regulatory device that would legally ban taxis that are not licensed by one of the ten Greater Manchester local authorities.

Backed by Sacha Lord, Greater Manchester’s Night Time Economy Adviser, Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s (GMCA) three-year Skills for Growth programme aims to upskill and retrain employees to aid staff retention, boost morale and attract new staff into the industry.

The London Recovery Programme, run by the GLA and London Councils, aims to boost London’s high streets by making it easier for businesses to trade and access council support. London Councils has also published its Pledges for Business, which is backed by every council leader in the capital.

The LGA has published it’s response to the DfT Best Practice Guidance (BPG) consultation, reiterating the need for legislative reform for hackney carriage and private hire licensing overall, while welcoming the clarify provided by BPG the  on some complex issues and acknowledging that it will be a useful resource.

NR3 is gaining traction with licensing authorities in England, with almost 50,000 searches completed over the past six months.

The BBC reported that a Gloucester councillor ran an illegal puppy breeding farm and allegedly passed off a deaf cross-breed dog as a healthy pup.

Reports said "multiple agencies" requested the council revoke the licence after tens of thousands of cigarettes and nearly 14 kilograms of illegal tobacco were discovered within the shop.

The Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill has reached the Committee stage.

The government has updated its guidance for local licensing authorities on the Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) duties under the Equality Act 2010.

DEFRA's letter to councils on arrangements necessary to deal with Ukrainian pets entering the UK.

LGA call on the Government to act quickly and take the next steps to introduce legislation that would empower local authorities to make the most suitable choice for their organisation.

Argos argued it was an abuse of the process for Barking & Dagenham to prosecute it when it received and followed advice from Milton Keynes Council, its primary authority partner for trading standards.

Entries are being sought for the prestigious National Pubwatch Awards 2022, once again kindly sponsored by JD Weatherspoon, which recognise the work of local Pubwatch schemes and their efforts to provide safe drinking environments for customers and staff.

New Government guidance outlining the structures and processes through which local partners in England should work together to reduce drug-related harm.

Lancaster City Council has revoked the licences of two dog breeders after evidence of animal cruelty was found at two sites in Morecambe.

The Summer Edition (Edition 14) of the IoL's LINK magazine has been published and is available online.

Nominations can now be made for colleagues to be considered for the Jeremy Allen Award 2022!

Four out of every 10 police forces in England and Wales are failing to ask arrested suspects whether they have a gambling addiction, data reveals.

From 31 May 2022, local authorities in England outside of London will be able to apply to the Secretary of State for new powers to enforce ‘moving traffic offences’. This means they can be granted powers that have previously been held only by the police and will be able to issue fines to drivers for these offences for the first time.

Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill will have its Second Reading in the House of Commons on 8 June 2022.

Drinkers who suffered the worst affects of alcoholism did not change their habits when Scotland's minimum pricing was introduced, a Public Health Scotland study shown.

Transport for London has brought in new Regulations to raise awareness that London PHV operators are required to contract directly with passengers to provide the journey that is the subject of a booking.

Michael Gove MP, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, has written to councils telling them to "make one final push and take every possible action to help your communities in their preparations."

DfT write to licensing authorities in preparation of the upcoming commencement of the Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles (Disabled Persons) Act 2022 (“the 2022 Act”) on 28 June.

In a letter to the Institute of Licensing, the Home Office has confirmed that the Regulatory easement in respect of off-sales of alcohol will cease in September 2022.

First Minister Mark Drakeford says Wales can look forward to a brighter future, as the last remaining coronavirus protections in law come to an end.

Department for Education and Home Office launch a new working group dedicated to tackling the number of spiking attacks against students.

A new report from UKHospitality, Level up hospitality – level up society, highlights how the sector is uniquely positioned to deliver growth and opportunity across the country and play its part in delivering the Government’s and society’s priorities, by generating jobs and economic growth.

The Department for Transport (DfT) has issued new "statutory guidance" for licensing authorities in England.

The Government has made changes to the Taxi & PHV air quality database.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has asked the LGA to remind colleagues that all local authorities must submit a completed animal licensing form by 31 May 2022.

Drivers are being helped to 'get behind the wheel' of taxis fuelled by a fully funded training initiative to give the area’s economy a welcome boost.

Lynne Neagle MS, Deputy Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, said the Welsh Government is actively working on implementing the recommendations of the Task and Finish Group on Gambling Related Harm.

Over two-thirds of councillors believe that moving to a hybrid model where meetings can be attended both online and in-person would improve the diversity of local councils, a new survey shows.

A pub landlord charged with breaches of COVID-19 regulations has successfully overturned fines issued, and the Barrister acting for the landlord said the case demonstrated the need to follow PACE process.

“Tourism and hospitality is a great sector to work in” – that’s the message from Economy Minister, Vaughan Gething, to mark the start of Wales Tourism Week 2022 (15 to 22 May).

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Transport, Baroness Vere, told the House of Lords that the Government will "will modernise the law to ensure that the same minimum standards are met by drivers across England".

The Levelling up and Regeneration Bill, announced in the Queen's Speech, will make the Pavement Licensing regime permanent.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has contacted local authorities to inform them of the consultation deadline extension.

Written Statement: Review of the Health Protection (Coronavirus Restriction) (No.5) (Wales) Regulations 2020

The Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill has been published along with a policy paper which summarises the steps the Government are taking, through the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill and other legislation and policy, to devolve power and give local leaders and communities the tools they need to make better places.

A new report, A Fare Shake: Reforming Taxis for the 21st Century, from the Adam Smith Institute (ASI) argues that the Government should move to overhaul current taxi cab legislation, creating a more dynamic and equitable sector to better serve the needs of Britons as they get moving after Covid.

LLG (Lawyers in Local Government) and ADSO (the Association of Democratic Services Officers) have expressed disappointment ahead of this week’s local elections that the Government has still not responded to the call for evidence on local authority remote meetings which was held from March to June 2021.

Following agreement by both Houses on the text of the Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles (Disabled Persons) Bill it received Royal Assent on 28 April. The Bill is now an Act of Parliament (law).

Grant Shapps MP, Secretary of State at Department for Transport, has promised to introduce licensing legislation for pedicabs.

The Department for Transport has issued an update on the Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles (Safeguarding and Road Safety) Act 2022.

This Order provides for the extension of licensing hours for licensed premises and clubs on Her Majesty The Queen’s Jubilee extended weekend between 2nd and 5th June 2022.

The House of Commons Committee report on spiking has been reported with recommendations to government.

The Rt Hon Kit Malthouse MP, Minister of State for Crime, Policing and Probation, has written to Licensing Committees encouraging them to continue working with local partners - particularly the police - to make sure spiking concern is highlighted and addressed appropriately and collaboratively.

The All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Night-Time Economy has published its report report on Impact of Covid-19 on the UK's Nightlife.

In July 2020, the House of Lords Social and Economic Impact of the Gambling Industry Committee published a report entitled ‘Gambling Harm—Time for Action’. The House of Lords is due to debate the report today (27 April 2022).

Further amendments have been made to the Animal activities licensing: statutory guidance for local authorities relating to Dog kennel boarding licensing.

Uber have started Part 8 proceedings against Sefton BC seeking a declaration that the agency model is unlawful in the provinces.

The Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles (Safeguarding and Road Safety) Act 2022 receives Royal Assent.

From 18 April, the legal requirement to wear face coverings in most indoor public spaces and on public transport will become guidance.

The 27-year-old man from Middlesbrough had been running lottery-style services such as bonus balls and raffles on Facebook and had around £140,000 in earnings stashed in various bank accounts

New measures to revitalise town centres and regenerate local economies have been published by the Scottish Government.

GHB, a drug that is used to spike drinks, has been reclassified as a Class B drug today (13 April) along with two related substances, GBL and 1,4-BD, meaning that those found in possession of them will face tougher penalties.

Under The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018, local authorities are required to provide certain information annually to the Secretary of State for Defra.

A counter-terrorism emergency planning exercise in Glasgow yesterday saw security operatives dealing with realistic terror scenarios presented by actors.

Arts and cultural events across Wales are looking forward to welcoming back visitors in person over the coming months as organisers switch back to live audience performances.

DEFRA has asked if local authorities to email them with a list of licensed dog boarding premises.

The Home Office has issued changes affecting Right to Licence checks for Licensing Authorities, which takes effect on 6 April 2022 including changes to the acceptable documents list for manual checks to establish a right to a licence.

The Immigration (Restrictions on Employment and Residential Accommodation) (Prescribed Requirements and Codes of Practice) and Licensing Act 2003 (Personal and Premises Licences) (Forms), etc., Regulations 2022

Checking an individual’s right to work using the temporary COVID-19 adjusted check measures has been extended to 30 September 2022.

Animal protection organisations and celebrities are today celebrating the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Bill passing its final hurdle in the House of Lords.

Two new guidance documents for preventing illegal working in licensed premises have recently been published which may be of interest to Licensing Authorities.

Live music industry umbrella organisation LIVE (Live music Industry Venues & Entertainment) has appointed Jon Collins as chief executive, who takes over from Greg Parmley.

The Offensive Weapons Act Commencement Regulations have now been signed and laid, and will bring the remaining provisions within the Offensive Weapons Act 2019 into force on 6 April 2022.

Camelot, which has operated the National Lottery since its inception in 1994, has issued proceedings in the High Court against the Gambling Commission over its decision last month to name Allwyn Entertainment UK as its preferred applicant for the Fourth Licence.

From today (4 April 2022), licence holders must complete a tax check to renew a taxi, private hire or scrap metal licence, or to apply for the same type of licence with a different licensing authority.

Guidance has been published for Home Office Immigration staff to assist in the prevention of illegal working in licensed premises, along with guidance on partnership working with the police or other agencies.

The IoL are asking members to provide views on the proposed Best Practice Guidance from the DfT. The IoL member survey results will be used to inform the IoL response to the DfT consultation.

Edinburgh's councillors have voted to ban lap dancing clubs in the Scottish capital.

DEFRA have advised that minor revisions to the statutory guidance documents for dog day care and dog breeding have been made and published.

DEFRA are seeking views on potential changes to microchipping legislation. This covers both the new mandatory cat microchipping requirements, as well as improvements to the current dog microchipping system so they work as effectively possible in reuniting pets with their owners.

DfT commissioned "quantitative and qualitative research" into wheelchair-accessible taxis and private hire vehicle services.

First Minister, Mark Drakeford MS said, from 28 March, the Welsh Government "will be removing the requirement for face coverings to be worn in retail premises and on public transport. However, to protect those most vulnerable, there will still be a requirement for face coverings to be worn in Health and Social Care settings."

The Department for Transport has announced £582 million funding to "extend the plug-in car, van, taxi and motorcycle grants to 2022 to 2023 to reduce their sticker price for the consumer."

The IoL are asking members to provide views on the propsed Best Practice Guidance from the DfT. The IoL member survey results will be used to inform the IoL response to the DfT consultation.

The Institute is please to be able to update members on the ongoing review of the gov.uk online licensing forms.

The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) would like to hear your views on how regulations could be improved to support best practice and reduce the burden on competent authorities and businesses.

The Department for Transport (DfT) are seeking views on the update to best practice guidance to be issued to taxi and private hire vehicle licensing authorities in England. The consultation will run for 12 weeks from 28 March 2022 until 23:45 on 20 June 2022.

Transport for London has renewed Uber's London operating licence for 30 months.

Stockton Borough Council has successfully defended a decision of its licensing sub-committee to revoke the licence of a premises for contravention of coronavirus regulations.

Consultation launched on microchipping regulations follow the Pet Theft Taskforce recommendations

The guidance to accompany pavement licensing introduced in the Business and Planning Act 2020 has been updated.

Kit Malthouse told the House of Commons that the Government will extend licensing hours for Queen's Jubilee weekend.

National Hair and Beauty Federation video explanation of what the amendment to the Health and Care Bill is, and what the next steps will be.

HMRC have published a new one-page guide to help Pub Tenants to understand their MGD and VAT obligations.

The cross-party Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee has expressed "concerns" over Parliament's inability to properly scrutinise and amend emergency provisions in the Coronavirus Act 2020 over the last two years.

Leicester City Council has made the decision to remove its existing Cumulative Impact Policy covering areas of the city as part of its recent Statement of Licensing Policy Review, albeit potentially for an interim period only.

Most of the remaining legal Covid restrictions in Scotland have now officially come to an end.

This Bill was read a third time and passed on Friday 18 March and will now proceed to the House of Lords for consideration.

Lords committee stage - line by line examination of the Bill - is scheduled for 22 March

The Government has announced that Round 4 (running across the 2022/23 and 23/24 financial years and worth £75 million) of the Safer Streets Fund is now available for interventions aimed at tackling neighbourhood crime, anti-social behaviour and VAWG, improving the safety of public spaces for all.

The report found that the number of noise complaints increased by 54% between 2019/20 and 2020/21 in 89 local authorities.

On Thursday 10 March 2022 the House of Lords Liaison Committee will hold three one-off evidence sessions to follow-up on the recommendations of the Licensing Act 2003 Committee, which published its report in April 2017.

This short guidance note provided by the IoL and LGA, aims to provide a brief overview of the role of responsible councils with regards to home to school contracts and licensing authorities with regards to safeguarding in taxi/ private hire vehicle (PHV) licensing and suggests some recommended actions.

The Government’s amendments, 153A and 157A of the Health and Care Bill have been agreed by the House of Lords.

Safer Business Network working with Mayor of London to implement recommendations of new scoping study

This statistical release covers the quarterly gambling participation and problem gambling prevalence data for the year to December 2021, as well as reporting on respondents’ perceptions of trust, crime, and attitudes towards gambling.

The IoL, NALEO and LGA are working with others to try to establish the position going forward in relation to online licensing application forms provided via gov.uk.

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has issued a reprimand to the Scottish Government and NHS National Services Scotland (NSS) over the implementation of the NHS Scotland Covid Status app.

The parents of a gambling addict who took his own life have accused the Government of being "asleep at the wheel" in their failure to regulate an industry they describe as "predatory" and "parasitic". It comes after a landmark inquest into the suicide of Jack Ritchie, 24, found that regulation, NHS treatment and government warnings about the dangers of gambling were "woefully inadequate".

Welsh Government plan to remove all the remaining restrictions on 28 March. Written Statement: Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 5) (Wales) Regulations 2020 – 3 March Review

The Government response to the House of Lords COVID-19 Committee’s report “Towns and Cities: Local Power is the Path to Recovery” has been published. The original Towns and Cities report was published on 7 December 2021.

DEFRA are consulting on the Standards of Modern Zoo Practice for Great Britain (‘the Standards’). The Standards will replace the Secretary of State’s Standards of Modern Zoo Practice (2012) in England and Scotland, and the National Assembly of Wales’ Standards of Modern Zoo Practice (2006) in Wales. Because zoo licensing is a devolved matter, this is a joint consultation on behalf of the Welsh Government and the Scottish Government

Five local government organisations including the Association of Democratic Services Officers (ADSO) and Lawyers in Local Government (LLG) have asked councils to consider passing a motion and writing to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to show their support for local authorities to be able to hold remote and hybrid meetings.

Ahead of the publication of the Government’s white paper on the future of the Gambling Act, the Local Government Association and Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) are calling for tougher powers for councils to determine where and how many gambling premises can open in their areas, alongside a crackdown on the current volume of gambling advertising and marketing.

Campaign spearheaded by the Institute of Licensing (IoL) and the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) to safeguard cosmetics industry successful as Government commits to new licensing scheme for practitioners.

From today (Monday 28th February 2022), the face covering requirements in Wales will change, meaning people will no longer be legally required to wear face coverings in a range of indoor places, including cinemas, theatres, community centres, museums and gyms.  Face coverings will continue to be a legal requirement for adults and children aged 11 and over, unless exempt, in all retail settings, on public transport and in health and care settings.

Leading members of the trade and police have highlighted how working in partnership and collaborating is the way forward for the pub sector as it recovers after the impact of the pandemic.

In a statement to Parliament, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed the details of the updated Strategic Framework to manage COVID-19 primarily through public health advice, vaccination, and treatment rather than legal restrictions.

The independent review was announced by Safeguarding Minister, Rachel Maclean.

It has been widely reported that Priti Patel set out plans to introduce legislation to make drink spiking a criminal offence.

The Prime Minister sets out the Government’s plans to live with and manage the virus.

The Gambling Commission has updated its guidance for all operators on fair and transparent terms and practices.

The Welsh Government are removing the exemption which allows smoking in holiday and temporary accommodation, along with the exemption that allows hotels, guest houses, inns etc to have designated smoking bedrooms. From 1 March 2022 all these settings will be required to be smoke-free.

The guide regarding the Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 (the Act, which was first published in October 2021 outlining the provisions of the Act which came into effect on 1 October, has now been updated to include the provisions of the Act which will come into effect on 6 April 2022.

DEFRA have published a further update to the statutory guidance on hiring horses - updated optional higher standard for diet from weekly to monthly body condition scoring.

The Government has granted permission to Greater Manchester Authorities to delay the implementation of their Clean Air Zone (CAZ).

The BII, BBPA and UKHospitality have together created a best practice guidance on pub repairs and dilapidations in order to support pub companies and tenants.

The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Pubs has released it report on the impact of the Covid pandemic on the pub sector.

All remaining Covid-19 restrictions in Northern Ireland will be lifted, Health Minister Robin Swann has announced.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 5) (Wales) Regulations 2020 require a review of the coronavirus measures to be undertaken every three weeks. The most recent three-week review was due to be completed by 10 February.

Regulations have been laid in Parliament today to extend the expiry date for statutory coronavirus (Covid-19) requirements, and enforcement powers for local authorities.

The BBC reports beer sales "plunged" in the UK during the Covid pandemic as people avoided pubs and drank wine and spirits at home instead, industry analysis found.

Local Government Lawyer reported that a Vale of Glamorgan councillor who sits on the local authority's planning committee has been found in breach of its code of conduct after establishing a cafe without first securing planning permission.

An investigation led by the Gambling Commission has seen the disruption of illegal lotteries operating on social media platform, Facebook.

DLUHC are consulting on proposals for a permanent regime for pavement licensing.  The consultation is now live but will close on Friday 11th February 2022.

Government proposals to reform gambling laws are reportedly now unlikely to be published until May.

The Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove, has said he is “strongly in sympathy with the view that hybrid meetings should continue in order to ensure the maximum amount of efficiency”.

The Government has launched its  Levelling Up White Paper which includes plans to explore more devolution of transport powers and responsibilities in England.  The White Paper includes reference to potential devolution of transport powers and responsibilities including control of taxi and private hire licensing to combined and upper tier authorities.

An investigation led by the Gambling Commission has seen the disruption of illegal lotteries operating on social media platform, Facebook.

DEFRA have provided a Q&A to assist and inform stakeholders in relation to the reviewed statutory guidance issued under The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018.  The new guidance comes into effect today (1 February) and will be updated online at midday.

DEFRA has published the revised statutory guidance for local authority inspectors in England on licensing activities involving animals. The guidance explains the conditions that businesses need to meet in order to receive an animal activities licence. The latest updates are intended to clarify drafting errors in guidance notes and to replace PDFs with HTML documents.

New analysis shows up to one million women in Great Britain could be at risk of experiencing harm from gambling, the charity GambleAware has warned, as they launch a new campaign today (31 January) for women to highlight the warning signs of problem gambling and signpost towards support.

Legislation proposing the permanent adoption or temporary extension of some beneficial measures enacted during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has been published in Scotland.

Rules on physical distancing and the wearing of face masks in certain circumstances are being relaxed.

Wales will move fully into alert level zero tomorrow as coronavirus cases begin to stabilise, First Minister Mark Drakeford has announced.

Face coverings and Covid passes are no longer legally required in England, after the relaxation of Plan B rules came into effect on Thursday (27 Jan 2022).

There’s been over 1,300 needle spiking incidents in the last six months, according to evidence given to the Home Affairs Select Committee.

A group of local government organisations have written an open letter and raised a petition calling on the UK Government to pass legislation allowing a resumption of remote meetings.

The Parliamentary All-Party Betting & Gaming Group (APBGG) has issued a severe, if subjective, set of findings from its investigation into the effectiveness of the Gambling Commission.

The Gambling Commission has announced changes to the statutory returns.

A Caerphilly man has been sentenced for unlicensed dog breeding under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Campaign group Big Brother Watch has launched a judicial review challenge against the Welsh Government over its ‘Covid Pass’, claiming that the scheme is unlawful “as it is disproportionate and unevidenced”.

Investigations by Telford and Wrekin Council’s trading standards officers, into puppies being sold illegally in Telford, has resulted in a successful prosecution at Shrewsbury Crown Court on 7th January.

Wales will complete the move to alert level 0 on 28 January, First Minister Mark Drakeford confirmed today, unless the public health situation changes for the worse.

MPs on the Home Affairs Select Committee have been told that the number of spiking cases in the UK is likely to be ‘underreported quite significantly’.

Legislation to end the harmful practice of setting ‘glue traps’ is to be brought forward by the Scottish Government in order to protect animal welfare.

England's Plan B measures are to end from next Thursday (27 January 2022), with mandatory face coverings in public places and Covid passports both dropped, the Prime Minister has announced.

The Government has published its response to the consultation on the draft statutory guidance on measures in the Offensive Weapons Act 2019 (“the Act”)) in relation to the sale, delivery and possession of bladed articles, bladed products and corrosives. The final version of the guidance has also been published.

Scottish Government confirms that additional measures aimed at stemming the spread of the Omicron variant whilst the vaccination booster programme took effect are to be lifted from 5:00am on Monday 24th January 2022.

Covid cases have plunged by a third compared to this time last week, official figures show.

Welsh First Minister, Mark Drakeford, has issued a statement following a review of the Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No.5) (Wales) Regulations 2020.

A couple who illegally bred dogs have been ordered to pay more than £450,000 following a successful prosecution by Vale of Glamorgan Council.

There is currently no regulator to ensure venues have adequate first aid provision, the Manchester Arena Inquiry has been told.

The Gambling Commission has issued an update on the National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms launched almost 3 years ago, and set the framework for improving prevention, education, and treatment support around gambling harms throughout Great Britain.

The BBC reported that "closing strip clubs in Bristol" will push the sex industry underground and put dancers "into more danger", a woman who works one of the venues says.

The Gambling Commission is consulting on changes to its Licensing, Compliance, and Enforcement Policy.

The Scottish Governemnt have confirmed that large outdoor events can resume without physical distancing or capacity limits from 00:01 on Monday 17 January, following a review of all measures in place to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). Measures covering indoor events and hospitality to be reviewed in one week.

Majority of respondents support tougher security measures, including a legal duty on public venues, to ensure preparedness for and protection from terrorist attacks.

The Home Office and Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) are preparing to allow digital identity checks within the new trust framework developed by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

North Northamptonshire Council has agreed to pay "substantial damages" to a publican who alleged abuse of process in a food safety case brought against him by a predecessor authority more than 20 years ago.

The Government is consulting on a national relaxation of licensing hours for Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee on the 2 June 2022.  The consultation is aimed at members of the public, local licensing authorities, licensed premises, and other interested parties in England and Wales where these proposals apply.

First Minister Mark Drakeford has asked people to keep taking steps to protect each other and keep Wales safe from the wave of Omicron cases, as he confirms that alert level 2 measures will stay in place in Wales.

Councils must continue holding meetings in person, the Government has said, as it rejected calls to introduce laws despite the spread of the Omicron variant.

Defra has been working with stakeholders to carry out a “light touch review” of the guidance notes that accompany The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018.

Pubs, clubs and bars could be allowed to stay open for an extra 2 hours over extended bank holiday weekend.

The online Temporary Event Notice (TEN) Form and the Prescribed form of counter notice (permitted limits) have been updated on gov.uk to reflect a change in the number of TENs permitted in a calendar year.

Nightclubs will close from 27 December to tackle the transmission of Omicron which continues to spread rapidly. The Scottish Government says the closures will be reviewed in three weeks/

A £40 million support package for businesses in the hospitality sector has been announced by the Northern Ireland Executive.

New measures including 2m social distancing in all premises open to the public and workplaces, and the rule of 6  gatherings in regulated premises will be introduced from 6am on Boxing Day to help keep Wales safe.

A £21 million support package to support Scotland's cultural and events organisations and freelancers experiencing cancellations due to the rapid spread of the new Omicron variant has been announced.

From today (22 December 2022), new guidance enables the 10-day self-isolation period for people who have tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) to be reduced to 7 days, in most cases.

This guidance is for licensing authority staff responsible for the issue, renewal, suspension and revocation of private hire and taxi driver licences and operator licences (called booking office licences in Scotland). It has been updated to explain changes to checks from 6 April 2022.

The Government laid in Parliament a Statutory Instrument making permanent the right to erect without planning application a "moveable structure within the curtilage of [non-listed] pubs, cafes, restaurants or historic visitor attractions".

The guidance on actions that drivers, operators and owners of taxis or private hire vehicles (PHVs) can take to protect against coronavirus has been updated to include the latest advice on lateral flow testing.

Additional support will be available for businesses who have been impacted by the Omicron variant, the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak has announced.

Ola, the world’s third largest app-based operator of private hire vehicles (“PHV”) and taxis, with some 1.5 million drivers globally, has a new 15-month London private hire operator’s licence following their successful appeal against Transport for London’s (“TfL”) decision not to renew their licence when it expired back in October 2020. The case was reported in The Telegraph on 17 December 2021.

Scotland is introducing additional steps to slow spread of dominant Omicron variant that will be reviewed after three weeks.

Marrying couples will have greater choice in how they celebrate their big day under government plans to legalise outdoor weddings in England and Wales.

Measures originally introduced during the pandemic will now be made permanent following public consultation.

Sporting events will be played behind closed doors from Boxing Day in Wales to help control the spread of the new omicron variant.

Defra has been working with stakeholders to carry out a “light touch review” of the guidance notes that accompany The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018. The updated guidance notes will come into force on 1st February 2022 and will be published on gov.uk in html format.

First Minister First Minister, Mark Drakeford MS has published a written statement following the latest review of the coronavirus regulations.    The statement sets out the Welsh Government’s expectations that the number of cases of the omicron variant will increase sharply, and new restrictions which will come into force on 27 December to help control the spread of the virus and to prevent large numbers of people needing hospital care. The measures include 2 metre social distancing for businesses and services after Christmas, while nightclubs must close from 27th December.

The Government said there is not sufficient new evidence which makes a compelling case for extending all of the provisions of the Licensing Act 2003 to airside premises.

Statement from the Executive says scenario planning is underway to develop a package of potential measures that could be used to slow the spread of the virus and when would be the most effective time to deploy them.

New guidance to help limit the rapid spread of the Omicron variant has been published. This guidance will take effect from 00.01 Friday 17 December. From Friday, businesses will be legally required to take reasonable measures to minimise transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Adults in England must now show a Covid pass to enter nightclubs, big sports matches and other large events - despite nearly 100 Conservative MPs voting against the government's plans.

As Omicron continues to spread, the Scottish Government sets out new guidance and measures to take effect from midnight on Friday to stem the flow of transmission, keep businesses and services open, and protect against pressure on health services.

The Welsh Government are seeking views on an updated National Strategy to stop violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence.