Responding to Changes - East Anglian Daily Times, 22 February 2005

The recent changes in the licensing laws may have provided the option for more liberal opening hours, but they will also call time on the way licences are currently granted.

The new arrangements introduce the need for personal as well as premises licences.

As from 7th February this year, applications for a premises licence where alcohol is supplied must include a named Designated Premises Supervisor. Although the Designated Premises Supervisor does not have to be on the premises at all times when alcohol is being sold, they are expected to spend a significant amount of time there and must be contactable at all times. They must also hold a Personal Licence.

A personal licence will allow holders to sell alcohol for consumption on or off any premises covered by a premises licence. Other than the Designated Premises Supervisor, it is not necessary for bar staff to be licensed. But as all supplies of alcohol under a premises licence must be made by or under the authority of a personal licence holder, it obviously makes sense to ensure there are as many personal licence holders on the staff as are operationally and legally necessary.

For those who currently hold a justices’ licence there is a transition period until 6th August 2005 during which applications can be made to convert existing licences into both the new premises and personal licences. Those who do not have these ‘grandfather rights’ will need to satisfy a range of criteria, which includes the achievement of an accredited qualification.

The Catering & Hospitality curriculum centre at Suffolk College has long recognised how important it is that those in the licensed trade are aware not only of the body of licensing law, but also the wider social responsibilities attached to the sale of alcohol. Their two-day course, Level 2 National Certificate for Licensees, gives successful candidates a British Institute of Inn-Keeping award through a combination of tutor directed study, self-study and a 45-minute exam. The programme, which usually takes place on consecutive Thursdays, doesn’t just cover permitted hours, weights and measures, public entertainment and other statutory areas. It also tackles the tricky issues such as happy hours, drugs, proof of age and how to prevent violence. The cost of the course for those aged over 19 is £130.00, which includes all registration and examination fees, plus £11.50 for the handbook that gives both course support and an ongoing reference. Our Information Centre, on 01473 296606, can provide the next scheduled dates.

Irresponsible drinking benefits no one. Suffolk College is very pleased to support the licensed trade with this opportunity to demonstrate that an increase in licensing hours doesn’t have to mean over indulgence. Cheers!