ACS

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman yesterday appeared in front of an influential Parliamentary committee to explain the impact of the Licensing Act 2003 on local shops.

Responding to questions from the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee in Parliament about under age purchases James Lowman said: “We are bringing about a culture change in the trade here, where you are increasingly seeing people being challenged for proof of age.”

The Committee also asked a range of questions on how the licensing act has impacted on convenience stores. Issues discussed included:
o Increased fees
o The burden of bureaucracy
o Inconsistency between different local authorities
o Partnership working

Mr Lowman, who appeared alongside Jeremy Beadles, Chief Executive of the Wine and Spirit Trade Association, said after the hearing: ‘The hearing was a valuable opportunity to discuss both the positive and negative effects of the new licensing regime.

“It is crucial that local authorities are given Guidance on how to use the powers given to them in the Licensing Act. Government needs to lead the way on this, and to ensure the act is as simple to use as possible.”