UK Nightlife

I wholeheartedly agree that the UK's nightlife is not only an important part of our national culture, but also an industry that contributes significantly to the country's economy, and I am pleased that the Government has taken a number of steps to support this sector.  This includes passing the Live Music Act, which removed the licensing requirement for amplified live music taking place between 8am to 11pm in small venues, bringing an end to the beer duty escalator and reforming the business rates regime.

The guidance published alongside the Licensing Act 2003 has been amended by the Government to make it clear to local authorities that they can make decisions about the most appropriate licensing strategy for their area and that they have the power to review the license of a premises under various circumstances.  This includes if drugs are sold or distributed on the premises, or if the premises is deemed to undermine the objective of preventing crime.

The Government's changes to the Licensing Act 2003 also gives licensing authorities the power to make decisions regarding the opening hours of licensed premises.  Decisions are rightly based on individual consideration of each premises application, as appropriate for the promotion of the licensing objectives and in line with the licensing authority's statement of licensing policy.  The Government has no plans to change this aspect of the alcohol licensing regime.

In addition, the Government is intervening to protect landlords and music promoters from crippling costs associated with soundproofing their historic venues.  Common sense guidance has been issued for councils telling them they must defend established music venues and pubs from having to bear the costs of keeping peace with new neighbours.  The guidance puts developers building new homes near live music venues or pubs in the frame to include sound-proofing in the homes.