One angry operator has slammed the Home Office's consultation on changes to licensing as a "farce".
Nick Griffin of the 10-strong Pleisure Pub Company, based in Brighton and London, slammed the process after he was turned down for a place at the London consultation roadshow to discuss proposed changes to the Licensing Act .
Instead he was offered a place in Blackpool or Newcastle. "It is totally ridiculous," he said. "I would have to travel over 200 miles to get to Blackpool and 300 to get to Newcastle.
"If the demand is there, then surely they can increase the size."
The Morning Advertiser understands that the roadshows in London and Birmingham are now full up. There are a limited number of places still available at Newcastle-upon-Tyne (9 August), Blackpool (13 August) and Cardiff (19 August). Two two and a half hour sessions will take place each day and attendance is limited to 50 people each (email cpgcommunications@homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk to reserve a place).
The whole consultation process is only set to run for six weeks in its entirety. "It is too short notice and my fear is that there won't be many operators in the room at the roadshows," said Griffin.
"This is not what I call a consultation. It is a box ticking exercise and makes a mockery of the word consultation. It is a farce."
Have you been turned for a place at one of the roadshows? Email Ewan.Turney@william-reed.co.uk
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