Parliamentary.ai

Overview

This bill amends the Licensing Act 2003 in England and Wales by adding "protecting and improving public health" as a licensing authority's general duty. This means licensing authorities will now need to consider public health when granting licenses for things like pubs, clubs, and shops selling alcohol.

Description

The bill makes a single amendment to the Licensing Act 2003. It inserts a new clause (e) into Section 4, subsection (2), adding "protecting and improving public health" to the list of general duties for licensing authorities. Currently, licensing authorities consider factors like crime and disorder, public safety, and the prevention of nuisance when issuing licenses. This bill expands their responsibilities to include the explicit consideration of public health. The bill applies to England and Wales and comes into effect immediately upon being passed.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to lead to significant changes in government spending. The additional duty placed upon licensing authorities may indirectly lead to increased costs associated with enforcing this new consideration, but no specific figures are provided within the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• Licensing Authorities: Will have an increased responsibility to consider public health when making licensing decisions. This might involve additional administrative work and potentially increased scrutiny of license applications.
• License Holders (Pubs, Clubs, Shops etc.): May face stricter licensing conditions if their operations are deemed to negatively impact public health. This could lead to increased costs in complying with the new requirements.
• Public Health Officials: Will likely have a greater role in advising licensing authorities on public health matters related to licensing decisions.
• The Public: May experience improvements in public health as a result of more stringent licensing decisions aimed at preventing health problems related to alcohol and other licensed activities.