As I blogged previously; the Government has launched a consultation on the possible abolition of Personal Licences. No idea where this latest government gem came from, but they claim it's about "reducing red tape". More likely it's about mending something that isn’t broken!
The proposal should be opposed, as the new idea they have in mind to replace the existing system is a potential disaster, and has attracted much criticism from just about all informed industry players.
HMG suggest that, in place of Personal Licences, they envisages that licensing authorities are given greater flexibility to impose conditions on premises licences at a local level, for example, for staff to undergo training. Imagine doing away with national vehicle driving licences and letting local authorities set local training for drivers? Good idea?
Some local Authorities might decide it would be best to drive on the right-hand side, and introduce training courses and qualifications thus to do. Now that would be really progressive (well, until you drive into the next 'LA' territory!).
Most industry players see the Personal Licence as one of the better innovations of the 2003 Licensing Act. It offers a national standard of knowledge, challenges bar staff to study and prove knowledge of the law and how to sell alcohol responsibly, gives them a step on the ladder of professionalism, protects customers from violence and drunkenness, protects children from harm and neighbours from nuisance - and is recognised across the country.
Pretty good objectives in my view! So why change it?
Martin Read CMBII
Managing Director of Inn-Dispensable Personal Licence Courses
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