ACS

7 April 2010

While election has been called for 6th May, Parliament will not be officially dissolved for a few days. This is a period know as ‘wash up’, which is an opportunity to finish up outstanding Parliamentary business. As there will only be a few days, it is a period of intense prioritisation where the Government tries to trade with the opposition to get there main proposals through.

Below are the following areas which affect retailers...

Cider Duty Increase

The 10% increase on cider duty announced in the Budget has had to be dropped due to opposition from the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives. As the increase has already been introduced, this means the 10% increased duty rate will continue until 30 June. After this date it will expire and the standard 2% increase announced for beer and spirits will come into force. Labour has indicated that they would re-implement the 10% increase if they win the next election, which they could do by holding a debate on the subject before 30 June. If the Conservatives win the election they have committed to a new approach to alcohol taxation which would include an increase in tax on ‘white ciders’ but necessarily all cider.

Crime and Security Bill

The Crime and Security Bill is a wide ranging bill which contains provisions on alcohol. These include giving councils new powers to blanket ban the sale of alcohol between 3am-6am and extending the remit of Alcohol Disorder Zone. The Bill has only reached Committee stage in the Lords but will be given time in the next two days. It is uncertain whether the bill will be passed or if it is, if the alcohol provisions will be included. ACS will keep members updated.

Sustainable Communities Act Amendment Bill

Sustainable Communities Act Amendment Bill will be given Parliamentary time this week and it is likely to be passed into law before the Election. This Bill will greatly strengthen the Sustainable Communities Act by creating an ongoing 'rolling' programme for communities and councils to submit proposals to government. The provisions in the current Bill expire after 31st July 2009. The Bill will also formally include Parish and Town Councils in the Act's process.