Issue - meetings

The Convener began by welcoming the finalised Statement of Licensing Policy, particularly the sections on over-provision and off-sales, as he noted that few Licensing Boards had included this in their policies.  He added that the Forum had felt that the Policy could have been more aspirational, and not simply tied to legislation.  The Forum had recognised the time pressures involved in preparing the new Policy but had felt that much of the Policy had been lifted from the last document, as opposed to taking a fresh look at how it could operate.  The Convener suggested that the Board and the Forum work together over the next couple of years on the next version of the Policy, particularly as there would be new legislation coming forward.  Finally, the Convener advised that the Forum had noted some inaccuracies and layout errors.

Councillor Townson stated that he felt that the Policy was not working as hoped in relation to over-provision of off-sales.  He agreed that the Policy should be more aspirational, particularly in terms of sale and display.  Councillor Boulton added that the Policy was in a ‘bedding-in’ period and that was important to strike the right balance with the licensed trade.  She hoped that the Policy came across as constructive, and noted that it would evolve through legislation and input from the Local Licensing Forum.  Councillor Boulton added that she liked the idea of the Policy containing an aspirational statement, and suggested that this could be considered by the Board and officers.

The Convener agreed with the importance of working with the licensed trade, and added that he was delighted that the Forum had recently appointed Ruary Campbell of UNIGHT as its Vice Convener.  He added that it was still difficult to establish links with supermarkets.

The Joint Meeting resolved:-

to note that the Board and officers would look to include an aspirational statement in the Statement of Licensing Policy.