§ Mr. David Atkinsonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the progress of implementation of the Licensing (Occasional Permissions) Act 1983.
§ Mr. MellorThe Act came into effect on 9 August 1983. As with any new procedure, its initial working gave rise to a number of inquiries. Full advantage of its provisions can also be taken only if organisations make their plans sufficiently far ahead. I believe, however. that any problems will disappear as familiarity with the Act's provisions develops and that organisations will recognise occasional pemissions as a useful addition to the liquor licensing legislation.