News

The Cabinet Office has provided an important update on the future of GOV.UK Licensing.

These Regulations make minor amendments to, and correct errors in, the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (All Tiers) (England) Regulations 2020.

The arrticle authored by Gary Grant, Barrister at Francis Taylor Building

Poppleston Allen reported that Trafford and Hereford Councils have removed their Cumulative Impact Policy Zones (CIZ) in response to the effect Covid has had on the licensed trade.

The British Beer and Pub Association said nearly three-quarters of pubs eligible for a £1,000 grant to help them survive through Christmas have yet to receive the money from their local council.

The Court of Appeal has handed down its judgement in the appeal by Dolan and others v Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.

The High Court has today handed down two judgments in R (UTAG & LTDA) v Transport for London & Mayor of London [2021] EWHC 72 (Admin) and R (UTAG & LTDA) v Transport for London & Mayor of London [2021] EWHC 73 (Admin), allowing the two conjoined claims for judicial review brought by two trade bodies representing the 'Black Cab' industry (the United Trade Action Group and the Licensed Taxi Drivers' Association) to challenge the Mayor of London's Streetspace Plan and Guidance, and a Traffic Management Order prohibiting the use of motorised vehicles, including Hackney Carriages, on Bishopsgate in the City of London.

It has been reported that all supermarkets will face inspections in the next two weeks to make sure they are Covid-secure. Ministers have reportedly told councils to check supermarkets have effective safety measures in place.

A new fund to support taxi and private hire drivers affected by the pandemic will launch this week in Scotland.

The Supreme Court has today (15 January) ruled that the ‘vast majority’ of business interruption insurance policyholders will have cover for losses incurred due to national Covid-19 measures.

The Scottish Government has published updated Coronavirus guidance to reflect the recent changes to lockdown measures in the country.

Jeff Smith MP,  Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Night Time Economy has written to local authorities requesting written evidence submissions to assist the APPG’s inquiry.

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon has today received support from the Northern Ireland Executive for her plans to provide a further financial assistance scheme for taxi drivers.

Scotland has introduced further measures to help stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) and limit non-essential contact to be introduced this weekend.

The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for the Night-Time Economy, formed in December, has, launched an inquiry into the impact of Covid-19 on British nightlife and is calling on the industry to submit evidence.

The Culture Secretary has launched a wide ranging review of the current gambling legislation to consider online stake and spend limits, advertising and marketing rules and the powers of the Gambling Commission. The IoL is surveying members to inform its response to the Call for Evidence.

Although officers will still apply the 4 E’s approach of engaging, explaining, and encouraging – only then enforcing, the Met has issued refreshed instructions to officers to issue fines more quickly to anyone committing obvious, wilful and serious breaches.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 3) and (All Tiers) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2021 were made at 4.30 p.m. on 5th January 2021, laid before Parliament at 5.30 p.m. and came into force today (6th January 2021). The amendments bring all areas of England into Tier 4 and make amendments to the Tier 4 restrictions to achieve a national lockdown.

The brief covers the latest lockdown (stay at home) amendments. It indicates a firmer approach stating that while officers should continue to engage members of the public and explain changes while offering encouragement to comply if necessary, enforcement can follow without repeated attempts to encourage compliance if the individual or group do not respond appropriately.

Gary Grant analyses the new regulations behind the government's latest national lockdown.

The Lord Chief Justice, Lord Burnett of Maldon has published a message confirming the importance of a continuation of the courts and tribunals despite the latest lockdown restrictions. The message emphasises that ' Facilitating remote attendance of all or some of those involved in hearings is the default position in all jurisdictions, whether backed by regulations or not.'

The Northern Ireland Executive has agreed a package of additional restrictions given the high levels of Covid-19 transmission in the community.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced a one-off grant worth up to £9,000 for businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors.

Mainland Scotland is to go into lockdown from midnight tonight (4 January 2021) with a new legal requirement forbidding anyone from leaving their home except for essential purposes.

The Economic Affairs Committee has published its report on Finance Bill including its findings on proposals for tax checks for licence renewal applications.

From 00:01 on Wednesday, England will move to the highest tier restrictions, tier 5. In lieu of the Regulations expected tomorrow, we look at the guidance published in advance of the national lockdown coming into force. The official guidance published sets out the implications for the hospitality sector and other businesses.

The Prime Minister has announced a national lockdown and instructed people to stay at home to control the virus, protect the NHS and save lives.

Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Matt Hancock MP, has announced further changes to local Covid restrictions in England.

Funding from the Future High Streets Fund to help 72 areas in England to recover from the pandemic and deliver ambitious regeneration plans.

A suite of new additional local authority COVID related enforcement powers came into force on 2 December 2020 on the making of the snappily titled The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Local Authority Enforcement Powers and Amendment) (England) Regulations 2020.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has announced new tiers for England, coming into force of Boxing Day. The next formal announcement was not due until later in the month.

This Library paper looks at licensing and planning issues relating to betting shops in Great Britain, setting out discussions about the restrictions on local authorities ability to refuse applications and the planning controls through ‘use classes’ which were amended in April 2015, placing betting shops in the “sui generis” category, so any change of use to a betting shop requires an application to the local planning authority for planning permission.

Tourism and hospitality businesses across Scotland are to benefit from a £104.3 million package of support in the New Year.

Northern Ireland has followed England, Scotland and Wales in reviewing and restricting the previously relaxed restrictions over the Christmas period.

The All Tiers Regulations (England) and guidance provide the new rules in place from 2 December. This note addresses 2 key concerns that have been identified.

The LGA calls for  the Government to meet, in full, all the extra costs councils incur as a result of leading communities through the pandemic and income losses they suffer as a result.

Support for independent cinemas this Christmas reaches £16 million, as Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden announces grant awards for 201 cinemas across England from Penrith to Penzance

Gary Grant, Barrister, Francis Taylor Building and Vice Chairman of the Institute of Licensing has authored this article following the annoucements by the Prime Minister this weekend and the subsequent publication of The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (All Tiers and Obligations of Undertakings) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2020 (“the Tier 4 Regulations”) this morning.

Following the announcement by Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday 19th December, The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (All Tiers and Obligations of Undertakings) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2020 have now been published, bringing in the new Tier 4 restrictions.  The Regulations came into force at 7:00am this morning (20th December).

The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 5) (Wales) Regulations 2020 come into force on 21 December 2020 (other than Part 6 which comes into force on 23 December 2020) and expire at the end of the day on 31 March 2021.

The Prime Minister has announced tougher restrictions for parts of England with a new Tier 4: ‘Stay at Home’ alert level.

Restrictions in Scotland have been tightened due to spread of new variant of COVID-19.

The Cabinet Office has responded to a request for an official update on plans to retire the gov.uk licensing forms.

HRMC are now in the development phase of the online tax registration check and they are seeking information from licensing authorities to help with the development of the tool.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has announced further tier changes in England s to come into effect at 00:01 on Saturday 19 December 2020. The Regulations are due to the laid on Friday 18 December 2020.

The government COVID-19 guidance on the relaxed restrictions for Christmas has been revised to reflect the message that while the relaxed restrictions set the limit on what can be done, everyone should carefully consider their own arrangements with a view to staying as safe as possible.

The furlough scheme has been extended until the end of April 2021 with the government continuing to contribute 80% towards wages – giving businesses and employees across the UK certainty into the New Year, the Chancellor announced today.

The Department for Transport have published the official statistics on taxi and private hire vehicles (PHV) in England. The statistics include information on taxis and private hire vehicles in England as at 31 March 2020, so do not show the impact of COVID-19 on the industry.

First Minister Mark Drakeford  has confirmed that higher-level restrictions will come into force to control rapidly accelerating coronavirus rates across Wales.

According to the BBC, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) is also looking at restrictions on breeding primates. Under the plans, those who keep them without a zoo licence would need to obtain a new specialist private primate keeper licence to ensure they are meeting zoo-level welfare standards.

On 2 December a revised tiering system was introduced by the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (All Tiers) (England) Regulations 2020 (“the All Tiers Regulations”). The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (All Tiers) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2020 have now been published, amending the areas in Tiers 2 and 3.

Three Scottish local authorities are to move up to Level 3 of the COVID-19 protection scale following rises in the prevalence of the virus in the past week.  East Lothian, Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire will all move this Friday 18 December at 6pm following significant increases in their infection rates. There will be a further review of the protection levels next week (Tuesday, 22 December) in order to allow for any action to be taken in light of further changes in infection data.

The Wales Government has published an update to its Coronavirus Control Plan, which builds on the traffic-light framework of restrictions originally put in place in May.

Birmingham Magistrates’ Court has today, 10 December 2020, dismissed appeals against interim steps taken by Birmingham City Council on summary reviews of two premises licences that arose out of trading in breach of restrictions imposed on the hospitality sector as part of the response to the Coronavirus pandemic.

The Government response to the House of Lords Gambling Industry Committee was presented to Parliament by the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Sport, Heritage and Tourism by Command of Her Majesty Laid in Parliament on 8 December 2020.

The Culture Secretary has launched a wide ranging review of the current gambling legislation to consider online stake and spend limits, advertising and marketing rules and the powers of the Gambling Commission.

The next NEXSTART advice note and Q&As dealing with current issues such as all things food and treatment of outside enclosures.

Summary guidance setting out additional powers for local authorities to enforce COVID-secure regulations has been published (4 December).

LGA advice note provides guidance on the All Tiers Regulations 2020 and in particular the Tier 2 ‘High Alert’ restrictions.

In this case, the claimant contends that the Secretary of State had no power to impose the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Self-Isolation) (England) Regulations 2020 (SI 2020 No 1045) (“the Regulations”) which required any person notified of a positive test for coronavirus and close contacts of such persons to “self-isolate”.

The COVID-19 pandemic has wrecked confidence across hospitality, with fewer than one in five (18%) leaders now optimistic about the market’s prospects for the next 12 months, the new Business Confidence Survey from CGA and Fourth reveals.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions and Functions of Local Authorities) (Amendment) (Wales) Regulations 2020 have been published, requiring bars, cafes, canteens, restaurants and pubs to be closed between 6.00 p.m. and 6.00 a.m. (with exceptions), prevent alcohol consumption in those premises, and requiring indoor premises of entertainment venues and visitor attractions to close. The Regulations will be laid before Senedd Cymru today (3 December 2020), and will come into force at 6.00 p.m. on 4 December 2020

These Regulations make provision for a local authority to give directions relating to premises, events and public outdoor places in its area. A direction may only be given if the local authority considers that the public health, necessity and proportionality conditions set out in regulation 2 are met.

Consolidated version of the amendments to the Obligation of Undertakings Regulations.

Mr Dolan sought judicial review of the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations (SI 2020/350) which gave effect to the “lockdown” in March 2020. Today (01.12.20), the Court of Appeal handed down its judgement dismissing Mr Dolan’s appeal and refusing permission to appeal to the Supreme Court. The Court of Appeal held that the Secretary of State did have the power (or “vires”) to make the Regulations, and that his other arguments (including under the ECHR) were academic and were in any event unarguable.

The gov.uk website states that from 2 December, everybody must follow this guidance for the tier in your area.

These Regulations enable local authority designated officers to issue notices to people who are contravening or have contravened various statutory provisions in place to minimise exposure to Coronavirus.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (All Tiers) (England) Regulations 2020 has been published. These regulations are due to be voted on by Parliament tomorrow and, if passed, will come into force on 2 December 2020.

A set of new targeted restrictions in the hospitality and leisure sectors, together with a £340m support package, has been announced by First Minister Mark Drakeford.

The guidance published today (30 November) sets out what you can and cannot do in each tier.

An announcement from the DfT’s External Affairs team.

Published on gov.uk, this is a brief overview of the types of evidence said to support the view that hospitality venues are a significant risk for transmission.

Findings published by CGA and AlixPartners indicate that more than 50,000 of England’s licensed premises will be unable to trade under the government’s tough new tiered restrictions next week.

A new report from the Hospitality and Tourism APPG has highlighted the acute impact of the COVID-19 crisis on businesses in the UK’s coastal and lakeside communities.

The Government has published the new Covid Tiers for England to come into effect at 00:01 on 2 December 2020.

The UK Government and the Devolved Administrations have agreed on joint arrangements for an easing of social restrictions that will allow family and friends to reunite over the Christmas period. A joint statement has been published following the announcements.

The Government has published its COVID-19 Winter Plan including details of England’s lockdown exit strategy and details of the revised tiers for England from 3 December.

Boris Johnson is expected to announce a strengthened the three-tiered system from 2 December, while special Christmas restrictions are likely to be harmonised across the UK.

The Institute of Licensing has submitted its written response to the Draft Finance Bill 2020-21 inquiry.

Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Robert Jenrick has written to local authorities confirming new enforcement powers for officers from 2 December.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions)(England) (No. 4) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2020 have been published and come into force on 21 November 2020, allowing shops, stalls, Christmas tree farms and other businesses selling or supplying natural Christmas trees to open.

The government has issued comprehensive guidance for taxi and PHV sector on actions that drivers, operators and owners of taxis or private hire vehicles (PHVs) can take to protect against coronavirus.

From 28 November 2020, the filtering rules for Standard and Enhanced DBS checks are changing. These changes are the result of a Supreme Court Judgment which identified that some elements of the existing filtering rules were disproportionate. Legislation has been changed, and from 28 November, DBS certificates will disclose criminal records according to this new legislation.

The Executive has agreed to introduce a two week circuit breaker from November 27 until December 11 to slow the spread of Coronavirus in the community and protect the health service. Businesses are able to open on 20th November, but have been told that although they can still do so, they will have to close again next Friday.

It has been reported that the Government is considering a ban on the sale of alcohol at night as part of a revamped tier system after the current lockdown in England.

Police forces were told to stop issuing £10k fines for gatherings but updated advice from the NPCC has now seen fines reintroduced.

From 6pm on 20 November, in 11 Scottish council areas will move to Level 4 for 3 weeks it has been announced.

Businesses will benefit from 2 grant schemes: one for businesses that have had to close, and another scheme for further business support as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Northern Ireland Executive agree gradual relaxation, starting on 20 November with unlicensed premises (cafes and coffee shops) allowed restricted opening times while pubs and bars will be able to make off-sales in sealed containers.

The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LSRG (Sector)) supports businesses that have been closed due to the national restrictions.  This guidance, published on 12 November is aimed at nightclubs, dance halls and adult entertainment businesses.

Restaurants, pubs and cafes will get automatic freedoms to provide takeaway services for another year.

The furlough scheme will be extended across the UK until the end of March, Chancellor Rishi Sunak has confirmed.

The Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick is reportedly drawing up plans to extend the automatic entitlement for takeaways and off sales for alcohol until March 2022.

As Wales comes out of its two week “firebreak”, Matthew Phipps, Head of Licensing England and Wales, at TLT LLP, looks at the guidance issued that seeks to offer advice on how licensed premises and hospitality more generally, may successfully and compliantly welcome customers back into your premises.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) (No. 4) Regulations 2020 have been published and will come into force on 5th November 2020.

Following publication of the new national lockdown regulations for England, Gary Grant and Charles Holland provide this authored article setting out explaining the new rules.

The LGA says lessons must be learnt from the past seven months, particularly around the importance of tapping into and using local expertise. It is calling on the Government to work jointly with councils to co-develop a clear strategy for after the national restrictions are set to end on December 2, with clear criteria about which restrictions or Tier Alert Levels will apply.

The DfT has written to licensing authorities urging them to sign up to the national taxi refusals register NR3 saying “Authorities that are not sharing relevant and necessary information risk facilitating the few dishonest individuals in the sector that fail to disclose any previous licensing history they might have.”

The DfT has issued further advice and guidance in light of the fact that compliance is not as high in taxis and PHVs as it is across the rest of the network.

A new and simpler set of national rules will apply once the Wales-wide firebreak lockdown comes to an end at 00:01 on Monday November 9.

England's month-long lockdown has been described as a "nightmare before Christmas", with pubs and suppliers to the sector in need of support in addition to furlough.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced that from Thursday 5 November 2020, everyone in England must stay at home, with a limited set of exemptions. The lockdown means pubs, bars, restaurants must close, except for takeaway and delivery services., but the buidance is clear that alcohol is excluded from takeaway services.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Local COVID-19Alert Level) (Medium, High and Very High)(England) (Amendment) (No. 3) Regulations 2020 which cover the latest restrictions in Nottinghamshire have been published and come into force today.

The High Court has refused permission for G-A-Y’s judicial review proceedings, challenging the Government’s 10pm curfew.

Calderdale, City of Bradford, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield will move from local COVID alert level high to very high from 00.01 on Monday 2 November.

Carlisle will move from local COVID alert level medium to local COVID alert level high from 00.01 Saturday 31 October.

The whole of Nottinghamshire will move from local COVID alert level 'high' to 'very high' from 00.01 on Friday 30 October.

Areas within Yorkshire and the Humber, the West Midlands, East Midlands, East (Home counties) and South East will move from local COVID alert level 'medium' to local COVID alert level 'high' from 00.01 Saturday 31 October.

The Scottish Government has announced one-off grants of up to £50,000 available to businesses in both sectors through the COVID-19 Contingency Fund.

Local Government Lawyer reports the Night-Time Economy Adviser for Greater Manchester, Sacha Lord, has threatened a judicial review challenge into the legality of implementing emergency restrictions on the area's hospitality sector, "without scientific evidence".

The Covid secure guidance for businesses has been updated on 23 October for hotels and other guest accommodation.

It has been reported that gamers as young as 16 are being treated for online betting addiction at the first NHS child gambling clinic after losing up to £100,000.

The new model is due to be confirmed today and is expected to come into force from 2 November, when temporary curbs on the hospitality trade are due to expire.

The Crown Court at St Albans has dismissed the second appeal brought by a private hire driver following allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards girls.

A Birmingham nightclub has had its licence suspended following a number of Covid-19 legislation breaches at the venue.

A Birmingham bar and restaurant has had its licence suspended following a number of Covid-19 legislation breaches at the venue.

An unlicensed private hire driver has been prosecuted by North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) for driving illegally for Ashby-de-la-Zouch taxi firm, A1 Taxis.

Warrington will move from local COVID alert level 'high' to 'very high' from 00.01 on Tuesday 27 October. This means all pubs and bars must close, unless they are serving substantial meals, any alcohol must only be served alongside such a meal. In addition, closures will include betting shops, adult gaming centres, casinos and soft play centres and areas.

Greater Manchester will move from local COVID alert level high to very high from 00.01 on Friday 23 October. The The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Local COVID-19 Alert Level) (Medium, High and Very High) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2020 Regulations have been published and will take effect across all parts of Greater Manchester.

A Glasgow restaurateur has said she is “delighted” after being told she can continue to operate after convincing a court that her business has been operating as a cafe since full lockdown ended. Stephen J. McGowan, Partner and Head of Licencing for Scotland for TLT LLP & IoL Scotland Regional Chair acted for Ms Eusebi.

These Regulations subject a number of areas to the restrictions set out in the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Local COVID-19 Alert Level) (Very High) (England) Regulations 2020 and make corresponding amendments to remove those areas from the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Local COVID-19 Alert Level) (High) (England) Regulations 2020.

These Regulations amend the Health Protection (Coronavirus) (Restrictions and Requirements) (Additional Temporary Measures) (Scotland) Regulations 2020 (“the principal regulations”). Regulation 2 amends the principal regulations to provide that they no longer expire at 6 a.m. on 26 October 2020 and instead expire at 6 a.m. on 2 November 2020.

Lancashire has moved from local COVID alert level high to very high on Saturday 17 October.

Coventry, Slough and Stoke-on-Trent will move to local COVID alert level high from Saturday 24 October.  In the meantime, other areas look set to move to 'very high', including Nottingham City and parts of Nottinghamshire, West Yorkshire, North East areas and Tees Valley, as discussions continue.

Five of Scotland’s Hospitality Industry bodies have taken the unprecedented step of commencing the legal process against restrictions imposed on the licensed trade by the Scottish Government.

South Yorkshire will move from local COVID alert level high to very high from 00.01 on Saturday 24 October.

Following the announcments of a 'fire-break' for Wales, The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 3) (Wales) Regulations 2020 have now been published.

Greater Manchester has launched two major public consultations to get a wide range of views on the city-region’s plans to reduce harmful air pollution on local roads and to introduce minimum standards for all taxis and private hire services licensed in the region.

Greater Manchester will move from local COVID alert level high to very high from 00.01 on Friday 23 October.

DEFRA has confirmed that the decision to extend home boarder licences is a local decision of licensing authorities.

A short, sharp “firebreak” will be introduced across Wales at the end of this week to help regain control of coronavirus, First Minister Mark Drakeford has announced.

Gary Grant and Charles Holland summarise the new system brought in through the 3-Tier Covid Regulations and focus on its impact on licensed premises.

These regulations amend The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Local COVID-19 Alert Level) (Medium) (England) Regulations 2020 to move towards a model of implementing baseline measures for the Local Covid Alert Level Very High areas, but allow flexibility for Local Authorities to request additional business closures based on their understanding of the local area.

This document has been developed by one of the NEXSTART Working Groups setting out a set of Q&As, together with some further useful links to Guidance, Regulations and the UK Hospitality FAQs focussing on the Coronavirus Regulations and Compliance.

As cases of Coronavirus continue to increase across the capital, the Met will be stepping up its response to target those who continue to flout the regulations, which are designed to keep Londoners safe.

Lesley Griffiths, Welsh Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs has issued a written statement on third party sales of puppies and kittens in Wales. Mr Griffiths confirmed in the written statement that Wales will ban commercial third-party sales of puppies and kittens.

As cases of Coronavirus continue to increase across the capital, the Met will be stepping up its response to target those who continue to flout the regulations, which are designed to keep Londoners safe.

London, Elmbridge, Essex, Barrow-in-Furness, York, North East Derbyshire, Erewash and Chesterfield will move to up from to local COVID alert level: high from Saturday.

The Scottish Government have published a reviews of various sets of restrictions that have been introduced at different stages.

The Welsh Government is preparing urgent action to prevent people who live in areas with high coronavirus infection rates across the UK from travelling to Wales, First Minister Mark Drakeford has confirmed, amid speculation that a ‘circuit breaker’ lockdown will also follow.

The Northern Ireland Executive has agreed a range of significant time-bound interventions to curb the spread of Covid-19 in Northern Ireland.

From 14 October, Liverpool City Region will be placed onto the ‘Very High’ Local Covid Alert Level.

The Prime Minister has set out a new three tiered system of local COVID Alert Levels in England, intended to standardise and simplify local rules

These Regulations impose restrictions on gatherings and businesses in the areas specified in Schedule 2, where the COVID-19 alert level is assessed as being very high, and on gatherings elsewhere by persons living in the specified areas.

These Regulations impose restrictions on gatherings and businesses in the areas specified in Schedule 2, where the local COVID-19 alert level is assessed as being high, and on gatherings elsewhere by persons living in the specified areas.

These Regulations impose restrictions on gatherings and businesses in England, other than in the areas specified in Schedule 2, where the local COVID-19 alert level is assessed as being medium.

New Government guidance for areas subject to local restrictions on what you can and cannot do if you live, work or travel in the affected areas.

A taxi driver who drove away from a pre-booked customer and their guide dog has been fined more than £1,100 under the Equality Act 2010 following an investigation by Milton Keynes Council.

All pubs and restaurants across central Scotland are to be closed under new measures aimed at tackling a surge in coronavirus cases. The new rules will be in force from 18:00 on Friday until 25 October.

Transport for London has refused Ola’s operating licence after public safety concerns over ‘unlicensed’ drivers.

A judicial review of the Government’s Covid restrictions on the hospitality sector has been launched.

LICENSED premises that were forced to close due to Covid-19 restrictions are receiving a discount on their fees from Copeland Council.

The Gambling Commission has announced strict new guidance for operators in order to clean up the malpractice of so-called VIP schemes – stating that if the guidance is followed there should be no irresponsible incentivisation of high value customers in the future.

The Government has now published its COVID-19 local authority compliance and enforcement grant information and guidance on the £30 million grant to local authorities will get for compliance and enforcement activities.

These Regulations make various changes to the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (North of England) Regulations 2020 dealing with coronavirus restrictions in the North, North East and North West of England.

IoL Chairman talks to the BBC on the impact of the coronavirus on his business ventures and the wider hospitality sector.

Local restrictions include a ban on indoor gatherings, and hospitality venues restricted to take-away, delivery and outdoor service.

New measures will be brought into law in the Liverpool City Region, Halton, Warrington, Hartlepool and Middlesbrough as incidence rates rise.  Meanwhile hospitality in Bolton can resume from midnight on Saturday 3rd October as the area as a result of falling infection rates.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (North of England, North East and North West of England and Obligations of Undertakings (England) etc.) (Amendment) Regulations 2020 were published on the evening of 29th September and come into force at midnight on 30th September 2020.  The Regulations restrict gatherings in protected areas within North East to no more than two persons unless exceptions apply.  Additional areas have been added to the list of ‘protected areas’,

The LGA has produced an advice note that brings together all the guidance available to councils when considering requests to run larger outdoor events. The document sets out the current position for areas not impacted by specific local regulations, and is subject to change depending on the prevalence of the virus.

A regulatory amendment published on 28 September 2020, has imposed with immediate effect further obligations the hospitality sector as the government seeks by regulation to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Charles Holland and Peter Rogers have jointly provided this authored article setting out the legislative background to the requirements, reviewing its effectiveness and enforceability and drawing their joint conclusions.

Uber has successfully appealed against the decision of TfL to refuse its London operating licence.

These Regulations amend the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Obligations of Hospitality Undertakings) (England) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/1008) (“the Undertakings Regulations”) the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) (England) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/684) and the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Collection of Contact Details etc and Related Requirements) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/1005). The amendments include expanding the scope of the existing requirements in the Undertakings Regulations. Regulation 2(5) introduces new requirements to take measures to stop singing and dancing, subject to exemptions, and to not play music which exceeds 85db(A).

From today, people in England will be required by law to self-isolate if they test positive or are contacted by NHS Test and Trace.  Support is available to those on low incomes who are unable to work while self-isolating, while the penalties for breaking the rules start at £1,000 increasing to £10,000 for repeat offences.

Measures will be brought into law from Wednesday 30th September, restricting inter-household mixing in indoor settings, including pubs and restaurants, in Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, South Tyneside, Northumberland and Sunderland.

Gary Grant, IoL Vice Chairman and Barrister at Francis Taylor Building has provided a consolidated version of The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Obligations of...Undertakings) (England) Regulations 2020, including all amendments as of 28 September 2020.

A consolidated version of the The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Obligations of Undertakings) (England) Regulations 2020 (with amendments as of 28 September 2020) is now online.

Amongst other things, Regulation 4 amends the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Collection of Contact Details etc and Related Requirements) Regulations 2020.

These Regulations amend the Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 2) (Wales) Regulations 2020 (the “principal Regulations”).

Consolidated version of The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) (England) Regulations 2020 prepared by IoL vice-chairman Gary Grant and Barrister at Francis Taylor Building.

These Regulations, coming into force on 25th September 2020, amend the Health Protection (Coronavirus) (Restrictions and Requirements) (Scotland) Regulations 2020 (“the principal regulations”).

New restrictions will be brought in for Wigan, Stockport, Blackpool and Leeds to help curb infection rates as COVID-19 cases continue to rise, while London is added as an area of concern and Teesside as an area of enhanced support.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) (England) (Amendment) (No. 5) Regulations 2020 have been published and parts will come into force at 5.00am today (24th September 2020). The Regulations make a number of changes to give effect to the restrictions announced by the Prime Minister on 22 September.

IoL Vice Chairman Gary Grant has provided a summary of the new coronavirus restrictions regulations, the The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) (England) (Amendment) (No. 5) Regulations 2020.

NHS COVID-19 app launches nationwide to help control COVID-19 transmission alongside national and local contact tracing, and businesses are now  required by law to display the NHS QR code posters to allow people to check in at different premises.

A UK-wide COBR meeting, chaired by the Prime Minister and attended by the First Ministers of Scotland and Northern Ireland and the deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland, preceded announcements of a 10pm curfew and requirements for table service in hospitality across the UK.

These Regulations amend the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Wearing of Face Coverings in a Relevant Place) (England) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/791) (“the Relevant Place Regulations”) to include theatres, restaurants, bars and public houses in the scope of the “relevant places” where members of the public are required to wear face coverings, except for in some limited cases such as when it is reasonably necessary for a person to remove their face covering to eat or drink.

Measures including a 10pm curfew for pubs, bars and restaurants, increased mandatory requirements for face coverings (including now for taxi and private hire users), tightenting the 'Rule of 6' and increasing sanctions for breaches have been announced by Prime Minister, Boris Johnson addressing the House of Commons today (22 Sept). The measures are aimed at slowing the spread of the virus, and the PM warned that further measures will be considered if necessary.

It has been reported that Downing Street has taken control of the upcoming review of gambling legislation, due to be launched ‘within weeks’.

Sefton Metropolitan Borough Council has lodged an appeal with Liverpool Crown Court over whether a former policeman convicted 14 years ago of abducting a 15-year-old girl should be granted a taxi driver licence.

These Regulations amend the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Wearing of Face Coverings on Public Transport) (England) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/592), so that taxis and private hire vehicles are included in the modes of public transport to which the requirement to wear a face covering applies.

Updates have been made to the COVID Working Safely Guidance - the changes relate to restaurants, pubs, bars and takeaway services – it includes added information on penalties for breaching the rules (section 1.1) and updated guidance on Test and Trace data and display of NHS QR codes (section 2.1).

IoL Patron and licensing expert Philip Kolvin QC is joining 11KBW chambers.

Lancashire, Merseyside, Warrington and Halton escalated to areas of intervention, with new restrictions in Wolverhampton, Oadby and Wigston, and parts of Bradford, Kirklees and Calderdale.

This instrument introduces a statutory requirement requiring designated venues to collect certain contact details mainly from customer, visitors and staff (as set out in the regulations), store this information for 21 days, and share it with NHS Test and Trace or local public health officials, if requested.

The new restrictions include all licensed pubs, bars and restaurants will have to shut by 23:00 every day, once the lockdown comes into effect.

The widespread introduction of COVID marshals to towns and cities in England to enforce social distancing rules is "unlikely" and "almost impossible", according to some councils, which have highlighted a lack of detail in last week’s Government’s announcement, including questions about funding, recruitment and enforcement powers.

A group of cross-party peers has asked the Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick to explain why he opposed smoking bans for pavement areas outside pubs and restaurants.

These Regulations require certain undertakings in the hospitality industry, to take measures to ensure that their customers follow the rules on social distancing. The Secretary of State must carry out a review of the need for the requirements in these Regulations within the period of six months of their coming into force.

This instrument makes provision for the purpose of enabling a number of public health measures to be taken to reduce the public health risk posed by the coronavirus in Northumberland, North Tyneside, South Tyneside, Gateshead, Newcastle, Sunderland and Durham County including licensing restrictions.

In this authored article, Gary Grant, Barrister at Francis Taylor Building and Vice Chairman of the Institute of Licensing looks in detail at the new 'Rule of 6'.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No.2) (England) (Amendment) (No. 4) Regulations 2020 has been published came into force at 12.01 a.m. on 14th September 2020. The instrument makes provision for the tightening restriations on gatherings which have been taken to reduce the public health risks posed by the spread of SARS-CoV-2 which causes Covid-19. IoL Vice Chairman Gary Grant has provided a version of the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) (England) Regulations 2020 including all amendments as of 14 September 2020.

This Note provided by Sarah Clover through the NexStart group is written in narrative form to give assistance as to what the latest regulations mean.

New laws prohibiting social gatherings of more than six people come into effect in England today (Monday 14 September) as the Government calls on the public to remain vigilant in the fight against coronavirus.

Update to Scotland's route map setting out further Phase 3 changes, as Scotland transitions through and out of the COVID-19 crisis.

Councils and the police is reported to have criticised the Government’s announcement of new COVID-19 marshals.

The Government has updated its guidance document on COVID-19 providing the list of businesses and premises expected to close in Leicester.

The Government has published, for the first time, guidance on the restrictions imposed in Bolton.

Face coverings will become mandatory in indoor public places across Wales from Monday as rules are tightened to prevent a fresh coronavirus crisis.

Following the announcements on 14 September and the ‘Rule of six’ which comes into effect on Monday 14th September, the guidance ‘Closing certain businesses and venues in England’ has been updated.

Birmingham, Sandwell and Solihull moved to 'areas of intervention', with residents told not to meet with people from outside their households to control the spread of the virus.     This article details the new restrictions alongside other changes to local restrictions.

The Executive has decided to introduce a series of localised restrictions to stem the increase in Covid-19 cases and keep people safe.

The government have confirmed the new mandatory requirements for premises and venues across England to have a system in place to record contact details of their customers, visitors and staff in the latest move to break the chains of transmission of coronavirus.

The DfT have written to licensing authorities across the country, acknowledging and thanking them for their hard work during the pandemic. In the letter, DfT Director Stephen Fidler recognises the challenges presented by the pandemic restrictions and applauds the many licensing authorities who have found ways to address challenges presented to normal licensing processes. He urges any licensing authority not currently accepting new licence applications to address the matter urgently to 'to support the restart of schools and support local economies and to limit any long-term impacts on the sector'.

Gatherings of more than 6 people indoors or outdoors will be illegal from Monday, enforced by the Police with fines for breaches.

The Government has announced new measures for Bolton including  late-night restriction of operating hours for venues and restricting the hospitality sector to takeaway only.  In addition, a ban on mixing outside households in homes and public outdoor settings will be enforceable as cases in Bolton reach 120 per 100,000 – the highest in the country.

Coronavirus laws will be tightened across Caerphilly borough to prevent a local outbreak of the virus spreading, Health Minister Vaughan Gething has announced.

Photocard licences or entitlement to drive that expires between 1 February and 31 December 2020 have been extended for 11 months from the date of expiry. This extension will be of interest to licensing authorities responsible for licensing taxi and private hire drivers.

The SIA has changed the qualifications needed for an SIA licence and is now consulting on top-up training for SIA-licensed door supervisors and security officers.

An ex-police officer who ‘quit’ the force after abducting schoolgirl and her friend has ‘won’ his legal battle to become a private hire driver.

The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) and the Institute of Licensing (IoL) have published two new reports on regulating cosmetic treatments. Cosmetic treatments are rapidly growing in popularity, but the existing regulatory regime is poorly equipped to keep the public safe.

NEXSTART, the National Exit Strategy Advice & Response Team for the Hospitality and Entertainment Industry, have issued two new guidance notes dealing with gaming machines in licensed bingo premises and adult gaming centres and gaming machines and pool tables in pubs in England.

Mendip District Council’s Licensing Team is delivering virtual safeguarding sessions to all its licensed taxi and private hire drivers.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus) (Restrictions on Holding of Gatherings and Amendment) (England) Regulations 2020 have been published and come into force today (Friday 28 August 2020), creating a new offence for holding (or being involved in holding) gatherings of more than 30 people.

Locally led approach seeing results as COVID-19 cases drop in some hotspot areas in northern England, meaning 2 households can mix again in areas including Bolton, Stockport, Trafford, Hyndburn and Burnley.  Current restrictions will remain in Leicester for a further 2 weeks as cases remain high at present.

A new £15 million Culture Organisations and Venues Recovery Fund will provide critical support to a range of businesses such as art galleries, studio facilities, comedy venues, large music venues, commercial theatres, orchestras, dance companies and nightclubs.  This is part of a £59 million funding package to protect jobs and help the industry weather the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Welsh Government has moved to give the police greater powers to prevent unlicensed music events taking place in Wales, as part of efforts to prevent the spread of Coronavirus, Health Minister Vaughan Gething has announced.

Police Scotland have been granted powers to break up large house parties as restrictions on social gatherings come into force from tomorrow (Friday 28 August) making it an offence to breach coronavirus (COVID-19) guidance by having a large house party indoors.

While most local authorities have found ways to overcome the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to operate the licensing function, there remain some who currently refuse to accept new licence applications.  This is an indefensible position to take, adversely impacting on individuals and businesses at a time of extreme difficulty and rising unemployment nationally.

The NTIA and a consortium of industry operators have published a  ‘Nightclubs & Venue Opening Strategy’ setting out the case for a science-based, risk-assessed return to a Covid-secure opening of nightclubs and venues.

The NEXSTART group have published an advice note focusing on gaming machines and pool tables in pubs in England.

The NEXSTART group have published an advice note focusing on gaming machines in licensed bingo premises and AGCs.

A new criminal offence for people organising or facilitating unlawful gatherings comes into force on Friday 28 August 2020.

Hospitality to reopen on Wednesday 26 August subject to compliance checks.

Government and local leaders in Oldham, Pendle and Blackburn have agreed additional measures to curb the spread of the virus, while removing Wigan, Darwen and Rossendale from intervention, but businesses including restaurants and pubs, workplaces and childcare including nurseries to remain open. In addition, Birmingham is now an ‘area of enhanced support’ and Northampton is an ‘area of intervention’.

A hackney carriage driver has had their appeal against the Council's decision to revoke their driver's licence dismissed by Guildford Crown Court.

The closing certain businesses and venues in England guidance has been updated to reflect changes in rules on wearing face coverings.

The BBPA, UK Hospitality and BII have issued an open letter to the pub sector highlighting the critical importance of engaging our customers in Covid secure practices.

Major UK breweries admit they have "an important role to play" in controlling the spread of coronavirus, after a Sky News investigation revealed nine out of 10 pubs in Greater Manchester were flouting lockdown rules.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) have launched a ‘Here to Help’ campaign to provides a practical guide for food businesses on how to register, re-open and adapt to the way they trade safely during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Licensed Taxi Drivers’ Association (LTDA) and United Trade Action Group (UTAG) has taken the decision to challenge both the Mayor of London and Transport for London (TfL) over its new Streetspace plans as more key roads are closed to motorists and licensed taxis.

There has been some uncertainty about the extent to which outdoor events are currently permitted to take place. This guidance note brings together relevant guidance on outdoor events and provides an overview of the current position.

Nail bars, outdoor pools, and beauty salons can reopen in Leicester from tomorrow (19 August). Current rules for gatherings in private homes and gardens will remain in place while the Government continues to monitor the situation and keep all restrictions and easements under consideration

The Government has confirmed re-opening from 15 August for casinos, bowling alleys, skating rinks and other premises, while nightclubs and dance halls will remain closed.  Close contact treatments will be able to resume in full although staff offering these services should wear a face mask (type 2 surgical), in addition to a clear visor that covers the face.  The easements come alongside tougher fines for face mask breaches and new fines for unlawful gatherings.

Guidance for performing arts and close contact services have been updated alongside guidance for the public following the announcements by the Government of further relaxations.

The Institute of Licensing has submitted a response to the Wales Government's consultation on the proposed ban of third party sales of puppies and kittens.

Current rules on gatherings in Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, East Lancashire and Leicester will remain in place, meaning casinos, skating rinks, bowling alleys, exhibition halls, conference centres and indoor play areas will not be permitted to open in these areas. The Government says it will continue to work with local leaders in Blackburn with Darwen, Oldham and Pendle to address high or rising cases

The Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has written to the Prime Minister setting out proposals to ensure the West End can survive the COVID-19 pandemic, as businesses face a 'perfect storm' with home working, tourism restrictions and social distancing requirements.

As announced at Budget 2020, the government will legislate in Finance Bill 2020-21 to make the renewal of licences to drive taxis and private hire vehicles, operate PHV firms and deal in scrap metal, conditional on applicants completing checks that confirm they are appropriately registered for tax. Licensing bodies will have to obtain confirmation that an applicant has completed the check before making a decision on their renewal application.  The draft primary legislation and supporting documentation has now been published.

UKHospitality has reiterated the importance of hospitality businesses to play their part in supporting the test and trace schemes across the UK.

The instrument amends the Face Coverings Regulations which require members of the public to wear a face covering when in a “relevant place”.

Pubs and other licensed premises should be made to comply with COVID-19 safety guidelines with councils given the powers to close down places where rules are being flouted and communities are put at risk of infection, the LGA said.

Newspapers reported that football's 35-year booze ban may be lifted to draw fans back into stadiums this year with proposals to allow supporters to drink in their seats aimed at avoiding unnecessary movement and contact with others.

The Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee (DPTAC) position on, and recommendations about, the accessibility of taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs).

The Government is consulting on plans to reform the planning system, streamlining planning processes, cutting red tape and making more use of technology to speed up the process. The stated intention of the proposed new system will be to protect valued green spaces with more building on brownfield land while delivering new homes faster, and provide a 30% discount through First Homes with an emphasis on key workers.

Paul Fleming, general secretary-elect of Equity, told the BBC more state funding was needed to keep the arts going through the pandemic calling the government's coronavirus performance a "pantomime".

Following an increase in coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Aberdeen, local restrictions on travel, indoor gatherings between households and the closure of indoor and outdoor hospitality will be introduced in the Aberdeen City local authority area, taking effect from 5pm today (Wednesday 5 August).

From today (3 August) pubs, cafes and restaurants in Wales will be able to serve people indoors with the BBC reporting that people have spoken of their excitement and anxiety about socialising again as lockdown rules are further relaxed in Wales.

It’s been reported that Scotland's national clinical director said there has to be a "reverse gear" over licensed venue easing lockdown in Scotland.

Guide Dogs and the RNIB have produced a joint letter to local authorities in regard to pavement licensing and the new Business and Planning Act.

There has been some discussion on this with Prof Graham Medley, a government scientific advisor, saying pubs or "other activities" in England may need to close to allow schools to reopen next month, while Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick subsequently advising that there are no plans to do this.

Charles Holland, Gary Grant and Leo Charalambides have provided an update of their report on 'The Rules for Independence Day and Beyond'

The £100m Zoo Animals Fund, announced on 27 June, is now open for applications from zoos and aquariums.

The Guidance 'Closing certain businesses and venues in England' has been updated following the announcement by Boris Johnson on 31 July regarding the delays to further reopening originally planed for 1 August.

The Government has announced a reversal of further lockdown easing in England following spikes in reported cases.

Live outdoor events, funfairs, amusement arcades, casinos, bingo halls and other premises are set to re-open on 24 August according to indicative dates from the Scotland Government.   The indicative dates will be kept under review and are contingent on the continued suppression of COVID-19.  Re-opening dates for indoor gyms, swimming pools and sports clubs will be reviewed in 3 weeks time with a current indicative date of 14 September.

The Scotland Government has published a guide for the events sector on safe re-opening during the coronavirus pandemic.

Government announces changes to rules on gatherings in Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire and East Lancashire after increase in COVID-19 cases.  Meanwhile, local restrictions in Luton will be lifted from Saturday 1 August, bringing the area back in line with the majority.

The first tranche of funding from the Government’s £1.57 billion cultural recovery package will be used to save around 150 grassroots music venues from insolvency, Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden has announced.

The Institute of Licensing taxi and PH suitability guidance has been referenced in the national press reporting on the DfT’s statutory guidance.

A funding package of £10 million has been established to help the events sector recover from the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. in Scotland. A restart date for the events sector is still awaited.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 2) (Wales) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2020 come into effect from 25th July, meaning cinemas, museums and beauty salons can reopen from Monday, as Wales’ coronavirus restrictions continue to be relaxed,

Campaigners are petitioning for further changes to address importation of puppies which undermines the licensing controls implemented by Lucy’s Law creating an enforcement minefield for local authorities tasked with regulating dog breeding.  The exploitative importation of young puppies for sale in England  gives rise to the same welfare concerns which prompted Lucy's Law, including the  premature separation from the mother, and the trauma and health issues that can be associated with transportation.

As the lockdown surge in demand for puppies continues, DEFRA's 'Petfished' campaign is being promoted by vets and celebrities in an effort to raise awareness of the issues which give rise to potentially severe welfare issues unscrupulous individuals breed puppies for profit with little or no concern for the welfare of the pups or their mother.

Stars from the UK’s Dance Music sector, alongside festivals, nightclubs, and industry figures are today issuing an urgent plea for support from the UK Government that the dance music clubs & events sector must be protected and recognised as an important part of the nation’s art and culture in parity with the wider Live Music sector, to ensure equal access to support.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Wearing of Face Coverings in a Relevant Place) (England) Regulations 2020 have been published.

This instrument makes further changes to Schedule 2 to allow the following businesses and venues to re-open on 25 July 2020: a. indoor swimming pools, including indoor facilities at water parks b. indoor fitness and dance studios c. indoor gyms and sports courts and facilities

The Business and Planning Bill 2019-21 has received Royal Assent today (22 July 2020) and its provisions come into effect immediately under section 24 of the new Act.

Guidance to accompany pavement licensing introduced in the Business and Planning Act 2020 has been issued.

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

Betting shops in Scotland have been ordered to switch off their gaming machines, just days after the Scottish Government announced it was lifting the controversial ban.

The new Statutory Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Standards which local authorities will be expected to implement are designed to improve consistency in the licensing system, reducing the risk of harm posed to children and vulnerable passengers in the process. It follows historic and serious cases of taxi and PHV drivers abusing their position of trust.

This note relates to pavement licences that would be granted to existing alcohol licensed premises. Inevitably the provisions are detailed and contain some ambiguity; however, one issue that has been identified as potentially posing some difficulty for operators is the provision of standard conditions.

The Business and Planning Bill has completed its scrutiny in the House of Lords and will now go back to the House of Commons for consideration of the proposed amendments.

People using pubs, restaurants and cafes will soon have greater freedom to choose non-smoking outdoor areas following an amendment tabled today to legislation in Parliament.

A Consumers are returning cautiously to hospitality, but rigorous safety measures, industry collaboration and government support can all speed the sector along the road to recovery.

The Local Government Association has issued guidance on the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) (England) Regulations.

The Government has issued guidance on the powers given to local authorities to impose local lockdowns.

Sarah Clover has written the latest NEXSTART note, this one on the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) (No. 3) Regulations 2020.

The Lord Chancellor has today (19 July 2020) announced locations for 10 ‘Nightingale Courts’ which have been rapidly set up to tackle the impact of coronavirus on the justice system. Spanning England and Wales, the courts will hear civil, family and tribunals work as well as non-custodial crime cases.

Indoor performances with socially distanced audiences will be able to take place across the country from 1 August, the Prime Minister has announced.

PM Boris Johnson has set out the Government’s position as it ‘hopes for the best and plans for the worst’.  Amid announcements of relaxations which will see theatres and indoor performances resume with social distancing measures from 1 August, additional funding has been announced for the NHS alongside local lockdown powers for ministers and local authorities.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) (No. 3) Regulations 2020 make provision for a local authority to give directions relating to premises, events and public outdoor places in its area. A direction may only be given if the local authority considers that the public health, necessity and proportionality conditions set out in regulation 2 are met. The Regulations will come into force on 18th July 2020.

The Government has announced that business events and conferences will be permitted to resume from 1 October provided rates of infection remain at current levels

Scientific advice for the safe re-opening of schools and resumption of school transport has been published today (Thursday 16 July). Subject to the continued suppression of the virus, and to surveillance and mitigations being in place, schools will re-open from 11 August.

Communities Minister, Carál Ní Chuilín MLA, has announced Executive agreement on proposals that will transform and modernise the liquor licensing law, striking a balance between tackling alcohol abuse and bolstering the hospitality industry.

Poppleston Allen Solicitors have reported that Bristol City Council have made the decision to remove all Cumulative Impact Assessment Policies with effect from 1st August 2020.

The Telegraph have reported that ministers are climbing down by placing an 11pm deadline on off-sales after Lords warned it would cause disorder.

India Cottage, a restaurant based in Ringwood, Hampshire has had its licence reviewed for not complying with lock down restrictions.

The Bill continues to progress through the House of Lords completing its committee stage.

Secretary of State for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Robert Jenrick has made a Written Ministerial Statement outlining the planning changes designed to protect

This instrument makes a number of changes to Schedule 2 (Businesses subject to Closures) of the Regulations.

Pubs, cafes, restaurants and bars in Wales will be able to serve customers indoors from 3 August, providing Covid cases continue to fall.

Theatres, concert halls and live music performance venues will be protected through changes to the planning system which will take effect next week, prompting councils to consider the impact of coronavirus into consideration when considering change of use, redevelopment of demotion of premises.

Businesses including beauty salons, nail bars and tattoo studios can reopen safely from Monday 13 July.

Following the announcement from the Government yesterday (10/07/2020), the Government has issued a raft of updates and releases have been issued:

A Chesterfield pub which breached COVID-19 regulations and caused a noise nuisance for neighbours, has had its licence revoked.

Hairdressers and barbers are preparing to re-open on 15 July under the Scottish Government’s route map out of lockdown.  Guidance has been published for the sector and will also apply to other services including beauty salons which have an indicative opening date of 22 July.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden announced further relaxation of restriction regulations relating to outdoor theatres, gyms and pools.

Charles Holland, Gary Grant and Leo Charalambides provide commentary and legal analysis on the The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) England Regulations.

NEXSTART's overview of the pavement licensing regime with Q&As.

The Business and Planning Bill is currently in the House of Lords for scrutiny.

The government has announced a £1.57 billion rescue package for Britain’s arts, culture and heritage industries. Thousands of organisations across a range of sectors including the performing arts and theatres, heritage, historic palaces, museums, galleries, live music and independent cinema will be able to access emergency grants and loans.

Culture Secretary announces agreements to allow selected sporting events and production on film and television to get underway safely.

The Government has issued guidance to accompany the relaxation of the restriction regulations that came into effect on 4 July.

NEXSTART commentary by Leo Charalambides, Sarah Clover & Charles Holland on the amendments to the Health Protection Regulations.

The NEXTSTART group have issued a further advice note on gambling covering gaming machines and compliance issues.

The Government has issued further guidance on how to maintain records of staff, customers and visitors to support NHS Test and Trace.

The amendment regulations that paves the way for further restrictions regulations to be lifted in respect of pubs and other licensed venues have been published.

At 3pm on 3 July 2020, the much anticipated regulations permitting pubs, bars, restaurants and, surprisingly, cinemas and theatres, in England to re-open were laid before Parliament, just hours before they come into force at 6am on Saturday, 4 July 2020.

The relaxation of lockdown restrictions has given rise to questions being raised by authorities and operators concerning the interpretation and implementation of the requirements imposed upon businesses as they gradually reopen. This note endeavours to assist all those involved in the process to provide a safe transition out of lockdown.

Stars from the UK’s live music sector have written to the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Oliver Dowden in an urgent plea for support from the UK Government during what would have been the UK’s world-famous festival season.

Pubs, cafes and restaurants to re-open outdoors in Wales will begin to re-open outdoors in Wales from July 13, if cases of coronavirus continue to fall.

The Information Commissioner’s Office has issued guidance to businesses collecting personal data for contact tracing.

Travelling in Cheltenham licensed taxis or private hire vehicles will become safer as the authority’s Cabinet is set to approve a new policy on partition screens in licensed vehicles.

The use of face coverings will become mandatory in shops in Scotland as coronavirus restrictions are eased and social distancing rules eased.

The report found that the Covid -19 pandemic has underlined the need for greater protections for people who can gamble with ease from home, at any time of day and at any level, via a mobile phone.

Businesses and organisations are being told to collect contact details of their visitors as their venues reopen this Saturday, to help the NHS Test and Trace service in the national effort to contain and prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Councils in England will now receive a further, unringfenced £500 million to respond to spending pressures they are facing as a result of COVID-19. The new support package was announced by Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick today, Thursday 2 July, as part of a comprehensive plan to ensure councils’ financial sustainability for the future.

The Select Committee on the Social and Economic Impact of the Gambling Industry has published its report: ‘Gambling Harm— Time for Action’.  The report makes over fifty recommendations to address the issues of problem gambling and criticises Government refusal to impose a mandatory levy on the industry to fund research, education and treatment.

Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock has confirmed that lockdown measures will be reinstated in Leicester with schools and non-essential retail stores required to close from today (30 June), and residents asked to stay at home.  All but essential travel to and from Leicester should now be avoided.

The Fundraising Regulator and the Chartered Institute of Fundraising (IoF) has produced guidance for safe fundraising during the pandemic.

Government guidance has been provided for those managing council buildings and multi-use community facilities.

The Business and Planning Bill cleared the House of Commons on 29 June 2020.

The latest advice note from the NEXSTART group which focuses on pavement licences under the new Business and Planning Bill.

Mandatory MOT testing is to be reintroduced from 1 August 2020 as COVID-19 restrictions are slowly lifted

House of Commons Public Accounts Committee report finds that the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) and the Gambling Commission it oversees have an “unacceptably weak understanding” of the impact of gambling harms and lack measurable targets for reducing them. The Gambling Commission has “no key performance indicators” and the departmental leadership lacks urgency to address this.

Sarah Clover has authored the latest advice note from the NEXSTART group which focuses on the Business and Planning Bill.

Zoos and aquariums in England set to receive up to £100 million in additional support to help them continue to care for their animals through coronavirus pandemic.

Sarah Clover and Leo Charalambides have authored the latest advice note from the NEXSTART group which focuses on group size, gatherings and capacity.

The Welsh Government is consulting on proposals to introduce a ban on commercial third party sales of puppies and kittens. This is a follow on from the consultation which was conducted between 19 February – 17 May 2019 and received 458 responses, the majority of which supported a ban. The consultation highlighted other issues which needed further investigation such as enforcement and breeding.

Gary Grant, Barrister at Francis Taylor Building and Vice Chairman of the Institute of Licensing, provides a detailed view of the changes proposed by the new Business and Planning Bill 2020.

The Scottish Government has published its indicative dates for Phase 2 & early Phase 3 restriction relaxation.

The Business and Planning Bill was introduced to the House of Commons on Thursday 25 June 2020. Draft guidance has been prepared to be read alongside a number of the planning measures set out in the Bill, including guidance on pavement licences.

Planning and licensing laws will be relaxed to help the hospitality industry recover from the coronavirus lockdown, the Government has announced. Measures included within the Bill will include a fast-track process for businesses to obtain permission for the use of outside areas, will allow off-sales for takeaway and delivery purposes without the need to vary existing licences which authorise the sale of alcohol.

Indicative dates for further relaxations to the Coronavirus regulations in Northern Ireland have been announced by the Executive.

Guidance has been provided for different categories of premises in England ahead of the latest lockdown relaxations announced by the PM yesterday, which will see the re-opening of many businesses including pubs, restaurants, hotels, cinemas, hairdressers and barbershops.

New guidance has been provided on social distancing ahead of the relaxations announced by the Prime Minister yesterday.

On 23 June 2020, the Prime Minister announced further easements of the coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions, including the re-opening of many businesses and venues (with exceptions).

The Government has published it’s ‘Guidance on Tourism and the Visitor Economy’, to help to get the tourism sector back up and running so the public can safely take domestic holidays  and visit attractions on days out.

NEXSTART has issued its latest advice note dealing with compliance with licence conditions.

The Government has confirmed that pubs, restaurants and cinemas and hotels can reopen on 4 July provided that can comply with Covid secure guidelines.

A team of retail and leisure experts has launched a new company called EVOLVE Partners to help rescue town centres including IoL Director and Chair of the West Midlands Institute of Licensing Sarah Clover.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government has written to local authorities asking them to relax licensing enforcement and reduce licensing fees.

The Gambling Commission is seeking views on proposed changes to the rules operators must abide by when transacting with high value customers.

Government has published a code of practice to encourage commercial tenants and landlords to work together to protect viable businesses.  The code is endorsed by UKH, BBPA and ACS amongst others.

The Scottish Government has announced that Scotland will now move in stages to Phase 2 of its COVID-19 recovery routemap

Scottish Government has published guidance for the tourism and hospitality sector, including procedures for staff and customer safety and an operations checklist.

The Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) has published guidance on searching people and their belongings whilst maintaining physical distance.

NEXSTART has issued its latest advice note dealing with toilet provision and the Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) Regulations 2020 in England & Wales.

The government guidance ‘Closing certain businesses and venues in England’ has been updated to reflect the changes implemented through the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) (Amendment) (No. 4) Regulations 2020.

The Government has announced increased testing for taxi and PH drivers to help the Government learn more about who is at higher risk and how the virus is spreading.

The Department for Transport has issued a statement on face coverings in taxis.

The Gambling Commission have published FAQs aimed at helping operators manage compliance with Government Covid-19 guidance on re-opening.

From today (Monday 15 June 2020) everyone must wear a face covering when travelling by public transport in England.  The Regulations make face coverings mandatory on buses, coaches, trams, ferries, aircraft and trains.  Taxi and private hire vehicles are not included in the Regulations, although there will be local policies on this and the guidance which has been updated to reflect the regulations advises the public to wear face coverings when using taxi and private hire vehicles and states that drivers may refuse passengers if they are not wearing them.

Reopening licensed premises will symbolise that return to normality and it is important we get it right. In this authored article, Daniel Davies gives his thoughts on on the imporance and impact of having the right partnership between regulators and operators.

Cutting tourism VAT, an overhaul of the business rates system and the creation of an autumn Bank Holiday are some of the ways in which the Government can support the UK’s hospitality and tourism businesses, according to a new report.

UKHospitality has called upon Government to confirm a re-opening date for hospitality and tourism, to allow businesses to prepare for a return to trading.

The Prime Minister has launched a review of the 2 metre social distancing rules amidst calls to reduce it to allow more businesses to open.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) (Amendment) (No. 4) Regulations 2020 bring further relaxation to lockdown regulations allowing more premises to open including betting shops, zoos and outdoor attractions.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has now confirmed that alongside shops, outdoor attractions where people can stay in their cars, and zoos can open on Monday 15 June subject to facilitating social distancing.

The Scottish Government has announced the formation of a new Scottish Recovery Tourism Taskforce to assist with the ongoing reset of the sector - and a provisional date of 15 July has been set for when tourism businesses may be able to resume operations, dependent on public health advice and progression to Phase 3 of the Scottish Government lockdown route-map.

The STA welcomes re-opening announcements, while remaining hopeful for some sectors to open earlier, and calling for urgent measures to overcome the 2 metre distancing requirements to enable economic viability for many businesses.

Thousands of high street shops, department stores and shopping centres will reopen on Monday 15 June amid calls for clarity on pubs. In the meantime, amid growing concern for zoos and similar establishments, media reports suggest that announcements later today will confirm that outdoor attractions can re-open from Monday subject to compliance with social distancing rules.

Philip Kolvin QC looks at a potential solution to the challenges of outside drinking , while Cheltenham Borough Council is understood to have become one of the first local authorities in the country to accelerate applications for temporary changes to the use of public areas and private land.

The association Guide Dogs for the Blind have created guidance to help taxi and private hire drivers and operators support customers with sight loss through good communication skills while maintaining social distancing.

After media speculation that the Government might bring forward the date for pubs reopening, Business Secretary Alok Sharma says the Government will “continue to follow the roadmap, which sets out our ambition to reopen these sectors from 4 July at the earliest”.

In a letter, sent to HM Courts and Tribunal Service together with the Magistrates’ Association, Office of the Lord Chief Justice and government ministers, the Institute of Licensing and NALEO have raised concerns in relation to the delays on licensing hearings in the magistrates’ court.

The BBPA has called on the Government for “urgent clarity and a definitive date for when beer gardens will be allowed to open”.

Business Secretary Alok Sharma is creating 5 new business-focused groups to unleash Britain’s growth potential and create jobs, as part of the government’s plans to help the economy bounce back from the coronavirus pandemic.

An expansion of face-to-face hearings is planned this week as 16 more court and tribunal buildings open across England and Wales. This news comes amid growing concern at the delays to licensing hearings which are subject to the Court’s Listing Priorities.

The Government has published it’s response to the Digital, Culture, Media & Sport Select Committee Report on Immersive and Addictive Technologies.   As part of the response, it has been announced that DCMS will launch a call for evidence into the impact of loot boxes on in-game spending and gambling-like behaviour later this year.

The Guidance 'Closing certain businesses and venues in England' has been updated to reflect the amended Regulations.

A number of changes to the Coronavirus Regulations will be introduced from Monday (8 June). The Executive has also indicated that hotels and other tourist accommodation will be allowed to re-open from July 20, if virus transmissions rates continue to decline. A final decision to allow this reopening will be confirmed nearer the time.

The Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Committee has launched a new super inquiry on Post-Pandemic Economic Growth. This wide-ranging and ambitious inquiry will look at the options available to Government to secure our economic recovery from the impact of Covid-19; covering investment, industrial strategy, jobs, skills, exports and sustainable growth. The Committee has called for evidence with submissions required by 17th July.

The Local Government Association has issued guidance on approaches to the use of screens in private hire vehicles (PHVs) and taxis during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In this authored article, Philip Kolvin QC gives his thoughts on solutions to allow the use of outdoor areas by licensed premises once allowed to reopen.

Guidance on off-sales and compliance with restriction regulations produced by a coalition of experts including the Institute of Licensing. This guidance provides practical guidance and a comprehensive list of FAQs for the trade and licensing authorities to assist with navigating the off sales legalities.

The All Party Parliamentary Group on Air Quality has published its Air Quality Strategy including provisions relevant to taxi and PH licensing.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced that it will be mandatory for bus, coach, train, tram, ferry and aircraft passengers in England to wear face coverings on their journeys from 15 June to coincide with the next phase of the lockdown relaxation. Official advice remains to work from home where possible. Update

A new study has been launched to understand how the COVID-19 lockdown has impacted gambling behaviour, including among potentially ‘high risk’ groups.

IoL President James Button looks at the Lockdown Regulations as amended from 1st June.

Following further relaxation of the lockdown restrictions, people are now able to exercise outside with up to five others from different households from today (Monday 1 June), provided that strict social distancing guidelines are followed. It has also been announced that extremely vulnerable people who have been “shielding” in England can now safely spend time outdoors. Updated guidance and FAQs have been published to support these developments.

Northern Ireland Economy Minister Diane Dodds has announced plans to allow hotels and other tourist accommodation to re-open from 20 July 2020.

The latest Health Protection amendment regulations have been published and due to come into force on 1 June 2020.

PM Boris Johnson has announced that groups of up to six people will be able to meet outdoors in England from Monday 1 June, provided strict social distancing guidelines are followed.

Following the Scottish Government’s announcement yesterday, arrangements are being put in place to reopen courts and tribunals buildings next week as part of Phase 1 of the Scottish Government Covid-19 Routemap.

The Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure has issued guidance notes dealing with protection and security issues as restrictions are lifted.

Prime minister ‘optimistic’ that bars may reopen with reduced social distancing restrictions.

It has been reported that the police are “retreating” from lockdown enforcement and will now only break up large gatherings.

Changes to Scotland’s lockdown restrictions have been confirmed by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon with some restrictions easing from Friday 29th May.

Outdoor markets and car showrooms in England will open from 1 June (subject to meeting secure guidelines) and all other non-essential retail are expected to re-open from 15 June subject to guidelines and providing the Government tests on the COVID-19 position are met. Hairdressers, nail bars and beauty salons, and the hospitality sector, remain closed at this stage.

A new £50 million fund for councils to support their local high streets get safely back to business has been announced by High Streets Minister Simon Clarke (24 May 2020). The Reopening High Streets Safely Fund will help councils in England introduce a range of safety measures in a move to get people back to work and customers back to the shops.

The launch of a £10 million independent gambling education initiative intended to equip a generation of young people to better understand the risks associated with gambling and engage with gambling products and environments in an informed way, has been announced.

It has been reported that the Government is looking at a "blanket permission" for restaurants and cafes to make use of public spaces.

Search interest in online casinos has hit an all-time high in the UK since lockdown began.

Research by data and insight consultancy CGA has suggested that as many as 30,000 pubs and restaurants may not open once lockdown restrictions are lifted.

The Scottish Government has published its route map setting out a phased approach to easing lockdown restrictions while still suppressing coronavirus (COVID-19).

The Pendulum pub in Pendeford, Wolverhampton has had its premises licence revoked in summary review proceedings brought by West Midlands Police for breaking the coronavirus lockdown provisions.

Criminals who commit ‘alcohol-fuelled crime’ may be banned from drinking and made to wear ‘sobriety tags’ after new legislation comes into force on 19 May 2020.

The Gambling Commission has issued new customer interaction guidance for remote operators to interact with consumers at risk of harm.

Government at Westminster, Holyrood and Cardiff must invest in a fair and timely return for hospitality this summer, for the benefit of local communities, peoples’ jobs, national wellbeing and the British economy. That’s the central message of a new campaign by trade body UKHospitality to highlight that businesses are ready to reopen in a safe and sustainable way given the right government support.

Five ministerially-led ‘taskforces’ will look at guidelines to support re-opening of businesses currently closed.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2020 come into force on 13 May 2020 and amend the the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020. The Guidance 'Closing certain businesses and venues in England' has also been updated to reflect the changes to the Regulations.

The Government has said it remains committed to publishing the taxi statutory guidance “shortly”.

The British Beer and Pub Association has warned that up to 14,000 pubs might close if they do not open by the end of September'.

A new health focused University of Stirling study is seeking to understand how the easing of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions on licensed premises can be effectively managed to protect emergency services.

The Gambling Commission said the lockdown has brought “significant consumer behavioural change and major impacts on the gambling industry.”

The Department for Transport has issued updated guidance following the Governments relaxation of restrictions.

In this article Philip Kolvin QC and Alicia Scholer give their views on the long-term impact of Covid-19 on the future of the social economy.

Under the first stages of relaxing the lockdown, daily excercise will be unlimited (from Wednesday 13th May), workers unable to work from home will be encouraged to return to work, and there are promises of further relaxation (stages two and three) including the possibility of some hospitality and other public places re-opening from 1 July 'if and only if the numbers support it' and with social distancing in place.

Industry bodies have reacted quickly following the announcements by the Prime Minister Boris Johnson last night (10 May).

The UK Government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy as presented to Parliament by the Prime Minister has been published.

A pub landlord that breached Coronavirus regulations eight times since the end of March has been served a prohibition notice by North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC).

There have been updates to the 'Closing certain businesses and venues in England' guidelines to further clarify the requirements of The Health Protection (Coronavirus) Regulations 2020. The Designation letter has also been updated, as well as the social distancing guidelines.

The Department for Transport postpones annual taxi and PH statistical survey.

A South Yorkshire Pub has been issued with a prohibition notice after it was reported that customers were hiding in cupboards.

The Bill introduced on 29 April 2020 would require operators of travelling funfairs in Scotland to have a public entertainment licence.

Uber have launched a service that will allow passengers to get real time information about licensed drivers.

The National Private Hire and Taxi Association (NPHTA), in conjunction with the national trade newspaper Private Hire and Taxi Monthly (PHTM) have written to local authorities urging them to allow protective screens in licensed taxi and private hire vehicles during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.

The Government has announced a £14 million suport fund for zoos and aquariums in the latest step to protect businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

Following the announcement that the Parliamentary All Party Betting & Gaming Group (APBGG) has launched a review of the Gambling Act 2005, IoL members are asked to submit their views to the IoL via an online survey.

The PCA has reported on its ongoing engagement with the regulated pub-owning businesses about how they are supporting their tenants in line with Pubs Code obligations.

Sadiq launches £2.3m Culture at Risk Business Support Fund to support London’s creative and cultural industries at risk due to the impact of the coronavirus.  Support will be given to grassroots music venues, LGBTQ+ venues, artist workspaces and independent cinemas across the capital, while the Mayor calls on Government to do more to secure the sector’s future

IoL President James Button updates his detailed look at the Regulations restricting movement and requiring businesses to close across England and Wales to take account of the amendments to the regulations in both England and Wales. Template prohibition notices also provided to assist Regulators in the absence of any prescribed forms.

Cornerstone Barristers’ Philip Kolvin QC and Clare Eames, a partner at licensing solicitors Poppleston Allen, give their take on late-night levy charges, which are payments for nothing during the coronavirus lockdown.

Terry Babbs, Brian Bannister, Jo Hill and Sir Martin Narey have been appointed by the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport as Commissioners of the Gambling Commission for five years from 30th April 2020.

The DCMS Select Committee has issued a call for evidence on impact of COVID-19 on the cultural sector.

The Gambling Commission has committed £9million in finding to boots gambling support and help services during the coronavirus (Covid19) outbreak.

The IoL's 'Protocol for Licence Applications and Hearings under the Licensing Act 2003 during the COVID-19 Pandemic' has been updated to reflect the new hearnings regulations for Wales.

London taxi drivers in London have failed to overturn a TfL decision to let Uber continue to operate.

The MP for Eltham has written to the Transport Minister urging him to take measures to save taxi drivers from "financial ruin".

It has been reported that pubs and outdoor spaces will be last to open when the Government lifts the current Covid-19 lockdown.

The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Matt Hancock MP, has written to employers confirming that testing is now available, in England and Scotland initially, for essential workers with symptoms, and people who live with essential workers and have symptoms.

The Scotland and Wales Governments have published frameworks for easing the Coronavirus lockdown restrictions.

The Local Authorities (Coronavirus) (Meetings) (Wales) Regulations 2020 have been published, making provision in relation to local authority meetings, and the publication of and access to certain local authority documents.

The stay-at-home regulations have been revised in Wales to continue to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Daniel Davies, Institute of Licensing Chairman and CEO of Rockpoint Leisure, explains why it is essential that the emergence from the current lock-down position is managed effectively with a trade off between public health and economic health that will command broad public support.

Pre-empting the review to be launched by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport at some time in the future, the only All Party Group to support the whole UK gambling industry launches its own review, to ensure an evidence-based submission can be submitted to the government. All industry stakeholders are invited to contribute.

The Public Accounts Committee has announced an inquiry into the February 2020 report by the National Audit Office into ‘Gambling regulation: problem gambling and protecting vulnerable people.’

An extended period of social distancing measures could cost one million jobs unless measures to protect hospitality businesses are put in place, according to UKHospitality.

High street shops and other companies under strain will be protected from aggressive rent collection and asked to pay what they can during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2020 came into force at 11am today (22 April 2020). Changes to Regulation 6(1) of the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020 now mean that it is prohibited to be outside of your home without a reasonable excuse, even if you left your home with one.

The Night Time Industries Association has today announced that it will be coordinating claims against Hiscox Insurance for its refusal to pay out under its business interruption policy.

Culture Minister Nigel Huddleston has urged the gambling sector to do all it can to tackle any heightened risk of problem gambling during the coronavirus lockdown, today.

The Canine & Feline Sector Group (CFSG) has produced guidance for pet businesses and local authorities about how they can operate safely and legally during the Covid-19 outbreak.

The MP for the Cities of London and Westminster is to introduce a 10-minute rule bill in an attempt to introduce the regulation of pedicabs in the capital.

The IoL's 'Protocol for Licence Applications & Hearings under the Licensing Act 2003 During the COVID-19 Pandemic' has been updated to include a new Annex  on remote hearings and to provide more information in relation to annual fees and the late night levy.

The letter thanks councils for their efforts responding to the coronavirus pandemic and provides further details on the support the government is providing to local authorities.

A communication from the DfT today (20 April 2020), highlights the temporary provisions for bus and lorry drivers aged 45 and over to forego the need for a D4 medical in order to renew their driving entitlement and advises licensing authorities to consider ways to support the taxi and private hire trade to continue to operate and provide essential travel.

A series of guides and briefings have been provided by the NPCC and College of Policing for frontline police officers to assist them in supporting the public health response to COVID-19.

HM Courts & Tribunals Service have provided an online guide for those asked to join a hearing by telephone or video using BT MeetMe, Skype for Business or Cloud Video Platform (CVP) during the coronavirus outbreak

DEFRA have announced changes to the statutory requirement to upload taxi and PH data.

The LGA has issued guidance on managing licensing and related issues during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kit Malthouse MP, Minister of State for Crime and Policing has written to local authority Licensing Committee Chairs across England and Wales recognising the difficulties faced by regulators and businesses and urging a collaborative and pragmatic approach to minimise damage to both businesses and the licensing objectives.

The IoL has updated it's 'Protocol for licence applications & hearings under the Licensing Act 2003 during the COVID-19 pandemic' to incorporate the advice to Licensing Authorities set out in a Ministerial letter from Kit Malthouse MP, Minister of State for Crime and Policing, to Chairs of Licensing Committees dated 8 April 2020.

DfT officials have circulated a number of useful links, and on the matter of driver licensing state that they are reviewing the Group 2 medical requirements but that the licensing of taxi and private hire drivers remains a matter for licensing authorities.

The Home Office has cancelled the 2019/20 alcohol and late-night refreshment data collection from local authorities.

Do local authority officers, authorised under the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020 have the power to enforce all the rules under those regulations, including those relating to movement of people and gatherings? Some say they do. Horatio Waller explains why he disagrees.

The College of Policing and NPCC have published briefs covering the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations (reconciling powers in relation to business closures with powers to disperse gatherings and restrictions on movement), and the Coronavirus Act which provides powers relating to potentially infectious persons and powers to the Secretary of State to issue directions relating to events, gatherings and premises.

The Bill for this Act of the Scottish Parliament received Royal Assent on 6th April 2020. Caroline Louden and Niall Hassard explain what it means for licensees.

A letter has been sent from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to local authority chief executives explaining two sets of regulations made under the Coronavirus Act 2020.

The Institute of Licensing has published a Protocol designed to assist licensing authorities in complying with their obligations and duties under the Licensing Act 2003 during this emergency period. It covers applications involving alcohol, entertainment and late night refreshment.

The Secretary of State has published the necessary regulations relating to the ability for local authorities to conduct hearings remotely.

The Gambling Commission has postponed this year’s local authority returns in light of Covid-19.

The Home Office has announced temporary changes to right to work checks in response to Covid-19.

As the Government measures to combat COVID-19 requires many premises and businesses across the country to close (or at least to subtantially change their business model), many industry are relying on insurance policies to protect them in these unprecedented times but the position is not straightforward. IoL Patron Philip Kolvin QC explains.

DEFRA has published further Animal Welfare Regulations guidance for local authority inspectors in England.

The Office for Product Safety and Standards has written to local authorities providing updated guidance on the restriction Regulations.

IoL President James Button has updated his previous article following further changes to the relevant regulations in England and Wales. This article takes a detailed look at the regulations which impose the most stringent restrictions ever applied to daily lives and business, and examines them in detail. Template prohibition notices are also provided to assist Regulators in the absence of any prescribed forms.

Another update to the guidance 'Closing certain businesses and venues', this time to the 'compliance' section, to reflect the updated Regulations now in force in England, Scotland and Wales.

A network of priority courts will remain open during the coronavirus pandemic to make sure the justice system continues to operate effectively, while other 'staffed courts' will support video and telephone hearings.

The College of Policing guide summarises the requirements of the Regulations and the police approach to enforcement as CEO requests that everyone supports the police by staying at home 'at this critical time'.

Following the announcements and subsequent Regulations regarding premises closures, IoL President James Button sets out the position in detail. The orginal article (23 March) has been updated (27 March)  following changes to the Regulations.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020 have been published.

The Coronavirus Act 2020 has now become law and is available online. There have also been further updates to the Business and premises guidance published today (26 March)

In these challenging times, we are delighted to bring you the latest Journal of Licensing, now available online for access by all licensing practitioners.

Latest Government guidance indicates that from 30 March 2020, MOT due dates for cars, motorcycles and light vans will be extended by 6 months. This is being done to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Philip Kolvin QC, Patron of the Institute of Licensing addresses any lingering doubts as to whether it is lawful for licensing hearings to be conducted remotely.

The Scottish Government has published guidance for businesses in Scotland on social distancing, including the closure of all retailers that sell non-essential goods and other non-essential premises due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Luke Hall MP, Minister for Local Government and Homelessness has written to local authorities on hotel closures clarifying exemptions for keyworkers and homeless. The letter urges anyone who has closed services for homeless people as a result of the measures announced this week, to reopen as soon as possible.

The current COVID-19 pandemic and necessary social restrictions present a fast changing legislative landscape. IoL President James Button, updates his previous article looking at the position of drivers carrying passengers, and also considers vehicle MOT's and licence renewals.

The guidance on business and premises closures has been updated with a more detailed list of closures and exceptions. The guidance states that 'Off-licences and licenced shops selling alcohol, including those within breweries' can remain open.

The Department for Transport has issued a call for evidence asking for information and views on 3 areas of the ‘Future of transport regulatory review’ including taxis and private hire.

The Department for Transport has provided an update on the status of taxi & PH vehicles.

All non-essential retail premises to close as Prime Minister Boris Johnson says: 'I must give the British people a very simple instruction - you must stay at home'. The restrictions will be in place for at least 3 weeks following the announcement during the PM's live broadcast on the evening of 23rd March. The Guidance to accompany the announcement has also been published. Updated 24th March 2020.

Plans for extended hours in May and August for the VE and VJ celebrations will be shelved in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing measures.

Local government will be responsible for enforcing regulations requiring those businesses asked to close on 20 March 2020, in new guidance issued today, 22 March 2020.

Statutory limits for lottery proceeds to be raised from 7 April this year.

An additional clause added to Coronavirus Bill will clear any ambiguity and expressly permit virtual licensing hearings as Charles Holland explains.

At 2pm on Saturday 21st March 2020, The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Business Closure) (England) Regulations 2020 (attached) came into immediate force. Made under Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984. The Government has produced guidance for businesses and other venues subject to the social distancing measures (link provided within full article).

The Government has ordered all UK pubs and restaurants to close "as soon as they reasonably can".

“What licence do you need to deliver alcohol?” may now be of urgent interest to many operators, and Charles Hollands has provided his views on the question.

The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2019 [SI 2019/1093] comes into force next month, and Sarah Clover has provided a briefing note to assist Local Authorities.

In an urgent Message issued today, 19 March 2020, the Lord  Chief Justice has issued guidance to all civil courts and tribunals on the administration of justice during the coronavirus pandemic.

Gary Grant, Vice-Chairman of the Institute of Licensing give us his thoughts on licensing hearings during the current COVID-19 crisis.

James Button, Institute of Licensing President looks at the issue of driver safety and refusal to carry passengers during the COVID-19 crisis.

On 17th March 2020, the IoL announced that all IoL training would be reviewed in light of COVID-19 and the Government announcments of 16th March.

The Institute of Licensing responds to Government recommendations on social distancing.

The Night Time Industries Association, Association of Independent Festivals and industry operators have released a media statement in light of the Government’s social distancing advice.

A Hull based bar has been prosecuted for carrying on licensable activities without a licence after failing to submit TEN and forging a premises licence.

Government urge people not to go to their local bars, pubs and other leisure venues as a measure to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

The Government has launched a new campaign urging the public to beware of unscrupulous pet sellers. This follows relevations that buying a pet from a low-welfare breeder could cost pet owners an extra £5,000 in vet bills over just 12 months.

Bristol could become the first city in the country to require pubs to sell alcohol-free beer on draught in a drive to improve drinkers’ health.

A local dog boarding kennels in Blymhill near Shifnal has been successfully prosecuted by South Staffordshire Council after it was found to be in breach of the Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963 during an inspection.

East Devon District Council has identified a reduction in the number of licensed taxi drivers over the past four years, which can be attributed to a variety of factors.

A man has been banned from selling animals for four years and ordered to pay more than £1,000 for failing to have licence to run a pet shop.

The Institute of Licensing (IoL), the professional body for licensing professionals, has extended Daniel Davies’ term as chairman.

The Government has announced plans to consult on relaxed hours to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day.

The Public Health (Minimum Price for Alcohol) (Wales) Act 2018 is set to come into force on 2 March 2020.

DEFRA has reminded licensing authorities to submit taxi and private hire data in accordance with the Air Quality (Taxi and Private Hire Vehicles Database) (England and Wales) Regulations 2019.

Ashford Borough Council successfully prosecute taxi drivers for refusing to take visually impaired passenger and their assistance dog outside railway station.

Councillors at Vale of Horse District Council and South Oxfordshire District Council have unanimously backed a motion calling on the government to introduce new measures designed to improve safety standards for taxis.

The Commission on Alcohol Harm has issued a call for evidence to support an inquiry into the effects of alcohol on society.

The Institute of Licensing has issued its response to the consultation on the regulation of gambling in Northern Ireland.

DEFRA has updated guidance to reflect the changes due to come in to force on 6 April 2020.

DOG breeders in Copeland are being urged to check they have a valid licence.

PASS is leading a consultation with retailers, proof of age providers, enforcement bodies and consumers to find a common solution to acceptance of digital proof of age.

Carling Academy in Dale End, Birmingham was granted a premises licence despite objections from West Midlands Police.

Carling Academy in Dale End, Birmingham was granted a premises licence despite objections from West Midlands Police.

A Wolverhampton City Council licensed driver was successfully prosecuted for unlawfully plying for hire during Cheltenham Festival 2019.

The Home Secretary has confirmed pubs in England and Wales will be able to open for longer to mark the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.

The Government has been called on to introduce licensing for car washes.

National Pubwatch have announced the release of their latest film

MPs are calling on the government to reduce the tax burden on pubs and breweries in next month's Budget as reported by the BBC.

The Department of Transport has been questioned on the status of the statutory guidance.

Select Committee on the Social and Economic Impact of the Gambling Industry takes evidence from the chief executives of the UK's biggest gambling firms.

IoL responds to industry critcism of guidance

A mother and daughter who bred dogs illegally, rearing at least 193 litters, have been ordered to pay back more than £600,000 by Southampton Crown Court.

A joint statement from the IoL, LGA, NALEO, BMRA and VRA

The Gambling Commission has welcomed the launch of a new local public health pathfinder to reduce gambling harms in the North West of England.

Following applications made by the Home Office (Immigration Enforcement), two restaurants in Chippenham and Pewsey have had licenses suspended.

Three drivers have been successfully prosecuted for unlawfully plying for hire during Cheltenham Festival 2019.

Gambling Commission announced the formation of three industry working groups to tackle key challenges as part of a drive to make gambling safer.

Alcohol education charity Drinkaware is launching a refreshed adaptation of its health, safety and wellbeing training, Drinkaware at Work.

On Monday 20th January 2020, Mr. Thomas Conneely of the Dick Whittington was convicted in his absence of three offences of dishonest reception of a television transmission.

The Government has confirmed that it is not planning to publish an alcohol strategy.

Members of Belfast City Council have called on Stormont to ban the sale of puppies and kittens from unregistered breeders.

Alcohol education charity Drinkaware starts 2020 with a third partner committing to its recently-launched Nightlife Crew training.

A taxi driver who flouted the law by driving nearly 200 bookings despite not having a valid licence has been fined £1,582 and banned from driving for 12 months by Chesterfield Magistrates.

The Government has pledged support for ‘Martyn’s law’.

Government statistics shows a drop in the number of FPNs issued for licensing offences.

The fee payable to lodge an appeal under the Licensing Act 2003 has been reduced.

A new commission, Commission for Alcohol Harm, has been setup to examine the current evidence on alcohol harm.

The Institute is asking member’s view on the licensing of 'White Collar Boxing'.

The Local Government Association has issued a warning following council seizures of counterfeit vodka from shops and storage facilities.

Taxi licensing officers at MK Council joined forces with Thames Valley Police on a safety operation in December.

The Institute of Licensing’s work to promote consistency between licensing and planning has been recognised by the Minister of State for Crime, Policing and the Fire Service.

A private hire vehicle proprietor convicted of fraud for faking insurance documents in a bid to save £90,000 - but this left his fleet of around 18 cars uninsured.

The Gambling Commission has launched a consultation on society lottery reform.

Party-goers should avoid using unlicensed cabs and illegal commercial “lifts” offered on social media warns the Local Government Association.

Redbridge Council has become the first local authority in the country to strip a pub of its gaming machine licence after it repeatedly failed to stop children playing on them.

A taxi driver who was caught breaking the law during a Trafford Council licensing enforcement operation has been fined in court.

Licensing authorities would have received an email from DEFRA seeking information on new burden payments in respect of the requirement to upload data to DEFRA.

There is concern that some councils are not using the NR3 database, which is currently the only means of sharing data about revocations and refusals of licences

Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures have indicated that there was growth in the pub sector for the first time since 2009.

Institute of Licensing’s chairman, Daniel Davies, has won a national award for his work as IoL chair and regeneration of New Brighton.

Court rules that enforcement costs CAN be recovered through licence fees but that there can be no cross-subsidy between licensing regimes or licence types.

LICENSED premises across Cumbria have ‘raised the bar’ at a prestigious awards ceremony.

A hackney carriage driver has had their appeal against the Council's decision to revoke their driver's licence dismissed by Guildford Magistrates' Court.

The ongoing legal battle involving taxi fees in Wakefield has reached the Court of Appeal.

Five drivers have been successfully prosecuted this week, on Monday 25 November 2019, for unlawfully plying for hire in Cheltenham, during Cheltenham Festival 2019.

Drinkaware is relaunching its successful Drinkaware Crew scheme with a new name - Nightlife Crew.

TfL has concluded that it will not grant Uber London Limited (Uber) a new private hire operator's licence in response to its latest application.

Kevin Rumsey from Elham was ordered to pay more than £2,000 in fines.

We were delighted to announce David Lucas as winner of the 2019 Jeremy Allen Award. David was presented his award on the evening of 21st November 2019 during the Institutes’ National Training Conference Gala Dinner.

The Welsh Government will introduce a minimum unit price for alcohol of 50p from 2 March 2020.

The Guardian is reporting that betting firms are recruiting specialist staff to lure high-spending “VIP” customers who lose significant sums of money.

The Upper Tribunal has ruled on the relevance of spent convictions and 'fit and proper person' test.

Edinburgh is set to become the first Scottish council to license sexual entertainment venues (SEV) in Scotland.

A taxi driver was ordered to pay costs of £3848 when his appeal against a decision by Hyndburn Borough Council to revoke his private hire driver's licence was dismissed.

The Local Government Association (LGA) have called on the Government to urgently reform taxi and private hire licensing.

The Gambling Commission has updated its guidance on 'available for use' gaming machines in AGC or bingo premises under the 20% regulations.

A BBC investigation has found that hundreds of London minicab drivers may be working fraudulently after buying qualifications.

The LGA have published a series of case studies looking at how councils are helping to support and transform the lives of people affected by alcohol.

NatWest is to offer counselling sessions for gambling addicts inside branches as part of a pilot scheme that could be rolled out across the country.

A man illegally caught carrying out Private Hire Taxi work without a valid licence in Beaconsfield has been fined after pleading guilty.

The Home Secretary has announced plans to extend pub licensing hours across England and Wales to mark the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.

The Gambling Commission has today published the 2019 Young People & Gambling survey.

The first fully electric taxi is set to take to London’s streets in over a 110 years.

Grant Shapps MP, Secretary of State for Transport has told the transport select committee that the Government has no plans to reform taxi and private hire licensing through the introduction of primary legislation.

An online gambling operator will pay £322,000 for money laundering failures.

The Gambling Commission has called for pub industry to take faster action to prevent under 18s accessing gaming machines in pubs.

A court has upheld a decision by Telford & Wrekin Council not to grant a convicted man a licence to drive a taxi or private hire vehicle.

The Gambling Commission has been progressing the delivery of its Research Programme to support the delivery of the National Strategy.

East Northamptonshire Council has welcomed the prosecution of three individuals after they pleaded guilty to selling dogs without a licence in Lilford.

Taxi Licensing Officers from Milton Keynes Council recently joined forces with Thames Valley Police to carry out checks on taxi drivers during an evening of positive enforcement action.

The Welsh Assembly has today (16/10/19) laid the Public Health (Minimum Price for Alcohol) (Minimum Unit Price) (Wales) Regulations 2019.

Northern Ireland’s Department for Communities has launched a consultation on current liquor licensing laws, their impact, if any, and what changes could be considered in the future.

Research published have shown a reduction in off-trade alcohol sales in Scotland since MUP was implemented.

The Government may bring taxi reform legislation forward in Queen’s speech.

A Bacup man has been fined £420 and found guilty of three offences after driving a Hackney Carriage without the proper licences.

North West Leicestershire has its first electric private hire vehicle after CK Cars’ new Tesla was officially licenced by the district council.

The Times have reported that autonomous taxis have driven on London’s roads for the first time.

A report has called for a significant reduction in the amount of alcohol consumed to reduce risk of developing dementia.

A private hire driver has unsuccessfully appealed after a council refused to renew his licence following the receipt of anonymous hearsay evidence.

The High Court has rules that non-party costs orders can be issued under the Licensing Act but rules of natural justice must apply.

A town centre nightclub that was at the centre of violent disorder will stay closed.

A private hire driver has unsuccessfully appealed after a council refused to renew his licence following the receipt of anonymous hearsay evidence.

Brent Council is consulting on proposals to regulate the number of off-licenses in hotspots that suffer from alcohol-related anti-social behaviour.

SEVEN licensed premises in Whitehaven have applied for a prestigious national accreditation.

A nightclub in London as lost its licence after serious crime and disorder issues.

This statistical release presents information on taxis and private hire vehicles in England as at 31 March 2019.

The LGA have published a councillor guide to tackling modern slavery.

Uber has been issued a temporary 2 month operating licence extension in London.

Lucy’s Law - aimed at cracking down on so-called puppy farms - will be passed by Scottish Government.

The DCMS has published its response to a consultation that took place towards the end of 2018 and early 2019, regarding the annual publication of entertainment statistics.

The Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee has published its 15th report looking at issued related to “Immersive and addictive technologies”.

Ban on new pubs ‘does not help’ tackle alcohol harm Scottish boards tell Holyrood

The Tattoo and Piercing Industry Union, and the Royal Society for Public Health renew calls for a uniform approach to the licensing of tattooists.

A Home Office funded trial will take place in Stratford station, East London, as part of the government’s continued drive to crack down on knife crime.

In the first High Court judgment on third party costs orders in licensing cases, the High Court has overturned a costs decision of a District Judge.

The Social Market Foundation has recommended to support the pub sector and cut problem drinking.

It has been reported that the Gambling Commission is set to online self-exclusion system Gamstop.

The Irish government has notified the European Commission of plans to ban alcohol promotions in the country.

The Institute of Licensing (IoL) and Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) are surveying members to gather views about the current regulation of cosmetic treatments and how this could be improved for better public protection.The Institute of Licensing (IoL) and Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) are surveying members to gather views about the current regulation of cosmetic treatments and how this could be improved for better public protection.

It has been reported that the work to harmonise taxi and private hire licensing standards in Greater Manchester will be delayed.

Pubs contribute an estimated £40 million to grassroots sport as rich heritage remains strong

A private hire driver recorded illegally picking up passengers was one of three recently convicted in court following a joint sting operation orchestrated by Manchester City Council.

Retrieving data. Wait a few seconds and try to cut or copy again.

A private hire driver has been successfully prosecuted at MK Magistrates’ Court for illegally plying for hire.

There will be no national exemption order for the forthcoming rugby world cup in Japan.

The Home Office has launched a consultation on draft guidance relating to the implementation of the Offensive Weapons Act.

Two private hire drivers have been successfully prosecuted at MK Magistrates’ Court for illegally plying for hire.

Carlsberg UK is sponsoring a new prize within the Guild of Beer Writers Annual Awards this year, with the aim of recognising the importance of writing and other communication in driving sustainability in the beer and pubs sector.

St Albans Council has defeated an appeal against the revocation of a hackney carriage driver’s licence for a driver due to stand trial for a conspiracy to supply Class A drugs.

The Gambling Commission issues guidance on the ability of licensing authorities to refund gambling premises annual fees.

Swansea Trading Standards have written to taxi licensing authorities about the ability of Doctors on Wheels Ltd to provide taxi and private hire medicals.

The Emergency Planning College (EPC) has launched its new “Guide to Working in Safety Advisory Groups.”

Pubs across the country from Elgin to Southampton have entered the Charity Pub of the Year Awards, organised by PubAid and the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group (APPBG) and sponsored by Matthew Clark.

The LGA has published a resource for councils looking at ways to strengthen and improve the management of the night-time economy.

The LGA has published an updated Councillor Guidance for the Licensing Act 2003.

The Gambling Commission has published a map of actions and implementation plan that are in place to reduce gambling harms in Great Britain.

The driver had previously had his licence revoked but was found attempting to ply for hire.

A cab driver has paid the price for driving off rather than pick up his pre-booked fare - a deaf/blind person and her Assistance Dog.

A number of private hire drivers have been successfully prosecuted at MK Magistrates’ Court for illegally plying for hire (blagging) following a joint enforcement operation conducted by Milton Keynes, South Northants and Aylesbury Vale Councils.

Magistrates heard Colin Owen's licence was revoked by Gwynedd Council following two incidents of violent behaviour.

The licence was granted as an exception to Southwark's Cumulative Impact Policy

Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs Lesley Griffiths has confirmed that third party sales of puppies and kittens are set to be banned in Wales after a consultation showed overwhelming public support.

The Department for Digital, Culture Media & Sport has issued a consultation on the minimum age for playing National Lottery games.

DEFRA has issued guidance to licensing authorities proving advice on compliance with the new taxi air quality reporting regulations.

The Welsh Government has published its report on Improving Public Transport outlining summary of response.

The Crown Court has overturned a decision by Halton Borough Council to refuse 13 hackney carriage (taxi) licences and remitted the matter back to the council with “strong” recommendation to undertake unmet demand survey.

The Welsh Government has announced that plans to modernise taxi licensing laws in Wales will be delayed.

The Portuguese Government has objected to Wales proposal for a minimum unit price (MUP) for alcohol.

The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2019 has been published.

The Garden Cinema, a new independent arts cinema and media hub in Seven Dials, Covent Garden London has been granted a premises licence.

On Friday 28 June 2019, Aylesbury Vale District Council (AVDC) successfully prosecuted 3 drivers for illegally plying for hire (blagging) at Milton Keynes Magistrates Court.

A Rossendale taxi driver who failed a basic skills, knowledge and conditions test three times has lost his appeal to keep his licence.

Cheltenham’s night-time economy has won a national award recognising it as one of the best in the country.

An appeal against a decision by Reading Borough Council to revoke and refuse to tranfer a premises licence has been dismissed.

The BBC reports that the UK's biggest gambling firms have agreed to contribute more money to fund treatment for problem gamblers.

Taxi Licensing Officers from Milton Keynes Council recently joined forces with Thames Valley Police to carry out checks on taxi drivers on an evening of positive enforcement action.

House of Lords Select Committee publishes a call for evidence in respect of the gambling industry.

A private hire licence holder has been charged for driving a private hire vehicle without a licence.

A reported licensing case in Ireland has heard that alcohol licensing rules had to be redrawn to cater for the scale of the Center Parcs resort in Co Longford.

The NHS is to open its first gambling clinic for children and young people.

The Social and Economic Impact of the Gambling Industry Committee was appointed on 13 June 2019.

The two new ‘emergency first-aid’ films were produced in Claytons Bar in Marlow focussing on simple and timely action licenses might take to reduce injury and prevent the loss of life.

It has been reported that alcohol sales in Scotland dropped in 2018 to the lowest level in any year since records began in the early 1990s.

A Milton Keynes private hire driver has been successfully prosecuted at MK Magistrates’ Court for illegally plying for hire (blagging).

The House of Lords Select Committee on Regenerating Seaside Towns and Communities has received a response from the Government to its report, The future of seaside towns.

It has been reported that twelve councils look to create a taxi licensing agreement in bid to clamp down on out of area drivers.

A Preston private hire operator that refused to accept a booking from a passenger with a guide dog pleaded guilty at Preston Magistrate’s Court and has been ordered to pay a total of £1,779.04.

A Bristol man who let people believe they were donating money to charity has today been sentenced at Bristol Crown Court to five months imprisonment following a guilty plea.

The driver raised concerns about the welfare of two young girls, leading to four men being arrested

North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) has become one of the first local authorities in the county to sign up to a new licensing register designed to improve public safety and confidence in taxis.

The Home Office has issued updated guidance on the ban of below cost sales of alcohol.

The High Court, has dismissed a renewed application for a Costs Capping Order ("CCO") and has ordered We Love Hackney Limited to pay security for costs in the sum of £60,000 if it intends to proceed with its claim for judicial review.

A report by the Night Time Industries Association has called on towns and cities to embrace the Political Economy of Informal Events.

East Herts District Council has today granted a premises licence for the Stone Valley South Festival, which is due to open this Friday (24 May 2019).

The Times reported that Tom Watson MP has written to the Gambling Commission “…to question the integrity of many operators.”

Glasgow City Council’s leader has announced the appointment of a night mayor to “co-ordinate the late night licensed trade activity in the city, including pubs and clubs.”

A report by Global Drug has found that whilst fewer people are drinking alcohol overall, those who do appear to be doing it in a potentially harmful way.

Three private hire drivers have been successfully prosecuted at MK Magistrates’ Court for illegally plying for hire (blagging).

Legislation that will to end puppy and kitten farming has been laid before Parliament and will come into force in April 2020.

Ms Margo Welsh applied for a private hire booking licence for Rosy and Pink Cars.

The Mail reported that over-55s are the fastest growing group of online gamblers according to new figures released.

Minimum Unit Pricing for alcohol in Scotland was implanted on 1 May 2018.

The Guardian reports that concerns over air pollution, traffic congestion, targeting of schools and illegal trading have led to a crackdown in parts of the capital.

From 7 May operators will be required to verify a customer’s age before they can deposit money or access free-play games, and verify their name, address and date of birth before they can gamble.

Surveillance Camera Commissioner has published its response to the ‘Taxi and private hire vehicle licensing: protecting users’ consultation by the Department for Transport.

Taxi Licensing Officers from Milton Keynes and South Northants Councils recently joined forces with Thames Valley Police to carry out checks on taxi drivers.

Nearly 1,000 UK pubs shut last year, although the rate of closures is slowing, new research claims.

The Air Quality (Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles Database) (England and Wales) Regulations 2019 have been debated in Parliament and will come into force on 1 May 2019.

Glasgow City Council has become the first council to place a cap on private hire car licences.

The toolkit, published in April 2019, is primarily aimed at frontline staff, including law enforcement, social care, education, housing and the voluntary sector, working to safeguard children and young people under the age of 18 from sexual and criminal exploitation.

The toolkit, published in April 2019, is primarily aimed at frontline staff, including law enforcement, social care, education, housing and the voluntary sector, working to safeguard children and young people under the age of 18 from sexual and criminal exploitation.

The IoL has responded to the consultation and highlights the need to address concerns about information sharing under the common law police disclosure arrangements.

A local chicken shop owner has been fined and ordered to pay costs to Guildford Borough Council, after pleading guilty to trading outside his licensed hours.

In dismissing the operators’ appeal on 12 April 2019, District Judge Susan Holdham, sitting at Camberwell Magistrates Court, agreed with the Council’s argument that it was perfectly proper to take into account evidence of cumulative impact as well as the Southwark’s Framework Hours policy.

The transcript of the case of Rehman v Wakefield Council is now available.

IoL President, James Button, has commented on a recent national press article suggesting an increase in the number of sexual attacks by taxi drivers.

DEFRA has issued the an advice note to clarify some issues that the team has been receiving feedback on, both from local authorities and other stakeholders.

Reading Borough Council's Licence revocation decision upheld by District Judge District Judge Toms, sitting at Reading Magistrates Court, has upheld the decision taken by Reading Borough Council’s Licensing Sub Committee to revoke the premises licence for Todays Local, 441 Basingstoke Road, Reading.

The driver has been prosecuted for using stickers to trick potential customers into thinking he was a licensed taxi.

On Monday (01/04/19), the reduction of the maximum stakes on fixed odd betting terminals (FOBT) came into effect.

House of Lords Select Committee report has been published following the review of the regeneration of seaside towns and communities

Ronnie Cowan MP lead a debate in the Westminster Hall on gambling-related harm.

The House of Common’s Transport Select Committee has held a one-off evidence session with the Chair of the Task and Finish Group on Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle Licensing (TFG).

The Home Office has confirmed there will be no requirement on licensing authorities to complete the annual alcohol licensing statistical return.

A private hire driver has lost their appeal against Guildford Borough Council’s decision to revoke their private hire driver’s licence.

“We Love Hackney”, a non – profit organisation, has been granted permission by the High Court to pursue a Judicial Review of Hackney council’s licensing policy.

The London Assembly has concluded that TfL needs to bring in higher standards in the capital’s taxi and private hire industry.

A taxi driver who refused to take a passenger with a guide dog in Abingdon has been ordered to pay nearly £600 after he was successfully prosecuted by Vale of White Horse District Council.

The Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee has published its 9th report of session 2017–19 focussing on live music in the UK.

Survey responses will be used to inform the IoL response to the DfT

The Team Margot Foundation, set up by industry entrepreneur Yaser Martini, is launching "Pinkspiration", an initiative to get hospitality operators to drive blood stem cell donor registrations.

MPs have written to the Leader of the House of Commons asking for “urgent action on taxi and private hire legislation.”

ID and age verification rules for all UK online gambling operators is set to change from May 2019 to ensure gambling is ‘fairer and safer’ for UK consumers.

The number of licensed taxis in Northern Ireland has reached its lowest number for 10 years.

The LGA has launched a national register of taxi and PHV licence refusals and revocations – or NR3.

The Institute has made a formal response to the Home Office consultation in relation to the Coalition proposals to 'rebalance the licensing regime'.

On Monday 20th January 2020, Mr. Thomas Conneely of the Dick Whittington was convicted in his absence of three offences of dishonest reception of a television transmission.

The BBC is reportinThe BBC is reporting that the head of mental health services in England has written to five major gambling companies, demanding urgent action on tackling gambling addiction and its impact on people's health. g that the head of mental health services in England has written to five major gambling companies, demanding urgent action on tackling gambling addiction and its impact on people's health.

The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), the trade association for the UK gambling industry, has launched a new multimedia campaign to promote safer gambling over the festive period.

The licensing team at Cheltenham Borough Council has been awarded the iESE’s Certificate of Excellence for its service transformation work.

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) and UKHospitality (UKH) have joined forces to unveil guidance for tackling under-age gambling in pubs.

Defra have recently issued a Notice to Zoo Inspectors, Zoo Operators and Local Authorities. The Notice outlines procedures for where non-compliance is identified at a zoo.