§ Mrs. LaitTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many applications were made in the last year for (i) new licences, (ii) the renewal of licences and (iii) for the transfer of licences to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises; and what proportion of these were(a) approved, (b) approved subject to conditions and (c) rejected.
§ Mr. Charles WardleProvisional figures show that in the year ending 30 June 1992 in England and Wales, there were 2,136 new applications for licences to sell intoxicating liquor for consumption off the premises, of which 1,712 —80 per cent.—were granted. Information about the number of applications for the renewal or transfer of off-licences is not collected centrally. Licensing justices have no power to attach conditions to the grant of an off-licence.
§ Mrs. LaitTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the cost to the public administration, including the cost of licensing justices and policing of operating the system of licensing for premises selling alcohol for consumption off the premises and of the compliance costs for businesses involved with the operation of this system.
§ Mr. Charles WardleAs to compliance costs, a fee of £.12.50 is payable on the initial grant and subsequent triennial renewal of an off-licence. The other information requested could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.