Latest Legal News - Mandatory Code on Licensing to be delayed (January 2010)

In a move welcomed by many in the licensed trade, the Government has announced that the introduction of the controversial proposed mandatory Code of Practice is to be delayed until after April 2011. 

The Code was designed to crack down on irresponsible promotions such as happy hours or "all you can drink for £10" and included discretionary measures such as the banning of glass and the ending of bulk discounts in the off trade.  The aim of the Code was to tackle alcohol-related problems which lead to criminal or anti-social behaviour. 

The consultation period aroused widespread objection from the licensed trade on the grounds that the Code had an untargeted approach when it is a minority of businesses which cause the problems that are trying to be addressed.  In addition, the costs of its implementation would have been hugely disproportionate and it would have been another financial burden placed on the trade when it is struggling in a tough economic climate.  The police and enforcement agencies also made it clear during the consultation that they believed that they already had sufficient powers to deal with these issues.

It remains to be seen whether the Code will ever be introduced but, for the time being, the delay for at least 18 months has been welcomed from a number of quarters.

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