Licensing Forum Sub-group - 24/09/2007

At a MEETING of the LICENSING FORUM SUB-GROUP of 24th September, 2007.

Present:-

Colin RATTRAY

Peter HARVEY (substitute for John PEARSON)

Allan FRIEL-MYLES

Steven DALTON

Chris SLOAN

Tahir RAMZAN

Colin RATTRAY in the Chair.

MINIMUM ENTRY CHARGE FOR PREMISES PROVIDING ENTERTAINMENT

The Sub-Group heard from Tahir Ramzan regarding the possibility of requesting that the Licensing Board consider making an exemption from the minimum entry charge policy to formally acknowledge free guest lists.

After considerable discussion, it was agreed that the group was in favour of retaining the charge as it supported a number of the Board's licensing objectives i.e. preventing crime and disorder, securing public safety and preventing public nuisance, in that it discouraged customers moving from club to club. In addition, the revenue raised by entry charges enabled premises to raise their standards in respect of security arrangements/accommodation/entertainment etc.

It was generally agreed that it would be virtually impossible for the Board to formulate an exemption clause in respect of free guest lists which would be enforceable. Licensees were however expected to behave responsibly.

The Group further agreed to recommend to the Forum that:-

(i) in view of the fact that the minimum charge had not been revised for some time, that a recommendation be made to the Board that the charge be raised to 3.50;

(ii) the Forum should ask the Board to look at the issue of deep discounting by off-licences; and

(iii) consideration be given to a code of conduct being introduced which, amongst other things, would prohibit the use of touts, advertising of drinks prices etc., and which could be made a condition of the licence.

Colin RATTRAY, Chair.