§ Mr. Lawrenceasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representation he has received in recent months requesting liberalisation of the licensing laws in England and Wales.
§ Mr. MellorSuch representations have been received from the licensed trade — the National Union of Licensed Victuallers and licensed victuallers' associations—Members of Parliament, members of the public and a local authority committee.
§ Mr. Lawrenceasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will consider the liberalising of the licensing laws in general and the introduction of flexible licensing laws in particular in the light of the experience in Scotland since the Licensing (Scotland) Act 1976.
§ Mr. MellorAny relaxation of the present licensing laws in England and Wales needs to be compatible with our general strategy for helping to prevent alcohol misuse, the indicators of which have all risen significantly in recent years. The publication "Drinking Sensibly" was issued by the Department of Health and Social Security in 1981 to stimulate discussion and create a background of informed public opinion which in turn would help to determine future Government strategies. While there are no plans at present to liberalise the licensing law, in keeping the matter under review we shall have regard to all the relevant considerations including any representations supporting — or opposing — a change in the law and any information about the effects of the extended opening hours in Scotland.