Home Office consults on late night levy and EMROs
The Home Office has launched a consultation on the introduction of late night levies and an extension to Early Morning Restriction Orders.
The measures were contained in the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011.
Under the Act, local authorities can charge a levy for late-night licences to contribute to the cost of extra policing.
The consultation asks whether some types of premises – such as hotels, cinemas or community venues – should be exempted or eligible for a reduction.
The Home Office said this could occur where the premises were judged not to be major contributors to the type of alcohol-related crime and disorder that impacts on neighbourhoods.
In relation to EMROs, a new power will allow licensing authorities to restrict the sale of alcohol in all or part of their areas between midnight and 6 am.
The consultation paper said: “Licensing authorities will be able to make an EMRO in relation to problem areas if they have evidence that the order is appropriate for the promotion of the licensing objectives. However, we believe that some types of premises should not be subject to an EMRO.”
Lord Henley, Minister for Crime Prevention and Antisocial Behaviour Reduction, said: “Alcohol-related crime and disorder is a problem for many of our communities. These new measures give power back to local areas so they can respond to their individual needs.
“But we also recognise that some types of premises that open late to serve alcohol do not contribute to late night drinking problems and should not be unduly penalised. That is why we are seeking views on whether they should be exempt or see a reduction in fees.”
The consultation, Dealing with the problems of late night drinking, can be viewed here. It runs until 10 April.
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