§ 1. Siobhain McDonagh (Mitcham and Morden)What studies her Department has made of the noise implications of the reform of licensed entertainment for residents living near licensed premises. [81368]
§ The Minister for Tourism, Film and Broadcasting (Dr. Kim Howells)We have made several such studies.
§ Siobhain McDonaghWhatever the reply was, Mr. Speaker, does the Minister agree that, although it 346 is important to introduce sound insulation so that residents who live close to pubs can lead good lives, it is important that the new licensing legislation increases the amount of live music in Britain?
§ Dr. HowellsWe believe that our proposed legislation will create many venues for live music in this country. For the first time, there will be a proper review of licences that are sought and granted. It will include the views of residents who sometimes have to put up with loud music.
§ Nick Harvey (North Devon)Although I welcome the Government's moves to sweep away arcane licensing laws, I urge them to make their new measures deregulatory, and not replace those that they are removing with a load of new bureaucratic regulations.
On noise, would not it be better for police and environmental health officers to be told when licensed premises opened rather than acquiring all the information through the licence?
§ Dr. HowellsWe believe that our proposed legislation is deregulatory and will do away with much red tape and bureaucracy, allowing for a premises licence that will enable the licensee not only to sell alcohol but to provide entertainment. That is a major plus for the music industry and I support it wholeheartedly.