Overview

This bill mandates annual electrical safety checks for all public houses in England and Wales. It aims to improve safety standards and prevent electrical fires in these establishments. The bill also details the responsibilities of licensing authorities and outlines provisions regarding insurance.

Description

The Public Houses (Electrical Safety) Bill requires the Secretary of State to use existing powers within the Licensing Act 2003 to mandate electrical safety certificates for all public houses. These certificates must confirm that an electrical safety test has been conducted within a specified period, typically one year.

Key Aspects:

• Testing: The bill sets requirements for the tests themselves, including qualifications for those conducting them.
• Licensing Authorities: Licensing authorities will be responsible for administering, auditing, and enforcing the certificate system.
• Insurance: The bill allows for regulations associated with insurance to be included.
• Exceptions: Exceptions to the annual testing requirement may be granted for new buildings, buildings falling into specific categories defined by the Secretary of State, or where licensing authorities are granted discretion.
• Geographic Scope: The bill applies only to England and Wales.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. However, implementation costs will likely arise from the administration and enforcement responsibilities placed upon licensing authorities. There may also be costs associated with the development and implementation of associated regulations.

Groups Affected

• Public Houses: Public houses will bear the direct cost of annual electrical safety testing and potentially insurance changes.
• Licensing Authorities: Licensing authorities will have increased administrative and enforcement burdens.
• Electrical Safety Testers: Increased demand for qualified electrical safety testers is expected.
• Insurance Companies: Insurance companies may need to adjust their policies and premiums.

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