Under the Gambling Act 2005, the licensing authorities (Local Authorities in England and Wales and Licensing Boards in Scotland) will take over the responsibility for granting premises licenses and permits for gambling from magistrates courts.
In preparation for receiving applications for premises licenses from the beginning of 2007, licensing authorities are required to publish a three-year licensing policy statement.
The guidance published today covers the manner in which the authorities are to carry out these functions and meet the licensing objectives of keeping crime out of gambling; ensuring that gambling is conducted fairly and openly; and protecting children and vulnerable people.
“This draft guidance will help licensing authorities find their way around the Gambling Act and get to grips with their new responsibilities. We want to encourage consistency in the way that premises licence and permit applications are handled throughout Great Britain, while at the same time leaving licensing authorities discretion to decide what is appropriate in their area,” said Peter Dean, Chairman of the Gambling Commission.
Calculators
