§ Brian CotterTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (1) what discussions she has had with local authorities on the effect of the proposed licensing bill on health and safety regulations; and if she will make a statement; [92333]
(2) what discussions she has had with local authorities on the (a) implementation, (b) monitoring, (c) effect and (d) fee-setting of the proposed entertainment licences; and if she will make a statement. [92334]
§ Dr. Howells[holding answer 21 January 2003]: Ministers and officials have discussed all aspects of licensing reform with the local authority associations. We are continuing this discussion as the Bill undergoes Parliamentary scrutiny. The Local Government Association and the Association of London Government are represented on the Advisory Group on the Bill.
Under the proposed reforms there will no longer be a separate entertainment licence. Instead a single premises licence for each place where licensable activities are to take place will set out the activities that are permitted there, including entertainment.