Archive | January, 2018

Pubs Code Update

On 24 January 2018, a Westminster Hall debate took place to assess whether the two main objectives under the Pubs Code: fair and lawful dealing by pub-owning businesses in relation to their tied tenants and tied pub tenants should be no worse off than if they were not subject to any tie are being met, […]

GB Gambling Commission warns online casino operators on approach to AML and social responsibility

David Clifton is quoted in a news article for the January 2018 edition of “Online Gambling Lawyer” entitled “GB Gambling Commission warns online casino operators on approach to AML and social responsibility”, concerning the letter sent by the Gambling Commission on 4 January 2018 to all online casino operators licensed by it, raising concerns about the sector’s approach to anti-money laundering and social responsibility […]

2018: A ‘tipping point’ for UK gambling

David Clifton’s December 2017 “Licensing Expert” article for SBC News entitled “Last chance saloon” is referred to in an iGaming Times article “2018: A ‘tipping point’ for UK gambling” (that can be downloaded below). The introduction to the iGaming Times article states: “Under sustained attack from the media, ministers, regulator and often itself, industry analysts reflect […]

Prime Minister answers question regarding FOBTs and online gambling targeting children

During Prime Minister’s Questions yesterday, Wednesday 25 January, the following exchange took place between John Hayes MP and the Prime Minister, Theresa May: Mr John Hayes (South Holland and The Deepings) (Con) “The Prime Minister will know of the devastation, debt and despair caused by fixed-odds betting terminals, which are now widespread—a far cry from the […]

Consultation on further changes to the LCCP launched

The Gambling Commission has today launched a consultation “Proposed changes to licence conditions and codes of practice linked to the fair and open licensing objective“ (that can be downloaded below) on proposed changes to its Licence conditions and codes of practice (“LCCP”). The closing date for responses is 5pm on 22 April 2018. The proposed changes (summarised below): relate to regulations […]

Pedicabs (London) Bill to progress to second reading

Pedicabs are regarded as a scourge by many residents and hospitality businesses in London alike. The Pedicabs (London) Bill was introduced to Parliament on Tuesday 23 January 2018 under the Ten Minute Rule. Having survived its first reading (a transcript of which can be downloaded below), it is expected to have its second reading debate on Friday 16 March 2018. This Private Member’s Bill […]

Studio 88 opens to critical acclaim just off Leicester Square in London

Suzanne Davies has assisted the team behind Piano Works in Farringdon, London with licensing advice enabling them to open their second venue, Studio 88, at 47 Whitcomb Street London WC2H 7DH, just off Leicester Square, described by them as: “a non-stop, audience requested, live music experience” where “every night, two piano vocalists and accompanying musicians […]

Alcohol minimum unit pricing inquiry

On 19 January 2018, the implications of alcohol Minimum Unit Pricing (“MUP”) were considered by the House of Commons Health and Home Affairs Committees with charities, academics, professional bodies and industry. The session can be viewed on parliamentlive.tv here. The purpose of the session was to: assess the case for introducing an MUP on alcohol in England in the light […]

Betting shops – Licensing & Planning Issues

The House of Commons Library has published a briefing paper entitled “Betting shops: Licensing and Planning Issues” that can be downloaded below. It summarises the position in relation to: Operating licences Premises licences Personal licences Planning matters Its publication coincides with the end of the DCMS consultation covering Government proposals relating to maximum stakes and prizes for all […]

ALMR and BBPA responses to gaming machines consultation

David Clifton’s recent article for Pub & Bar magazine “Status quo on gaming machines in pubs and bars” reported on the outcome of the government’s review of proposals for changes to gaming machine entitlements, stakes and prizes, including for gaming machines in pubs and bars. The public consultation on the same subject that followed concluded yesterday 23 January. Press releases have […]