Concerns raised over new Scottish licensing regime

The Scottish Executive has defended its handling of the new Licensing Act, following a high profile complaint from Glasgow licensing board.

New board chairman Councillor James McNally argued that lack of detail about how the Act is to be administered is "a major issue of concern", and is seeking an "urgent" personal meeting with Justice Minister Kenny MacAskill.

Licensing lawyers have also warned that board officials and operators across Scotland could face chaos if the complex transition to the new regime, effective in 2009, hits any serious snags.

Councillor McNally told the city's board meeting the current lack of instructions means licensees are "in the dark" about how they are supposed to operate after February next year. The new regime will see the introduction of new premises licences such as England and Wales.

Archie McIver of Glasgow legal firm Brunton Miller said: "It's true to say there is cause for concern - the situation poses obvious difficulties for lawyers representing licensees, but also particularly for licensing board clerks and their departments.

"Since Councillor McNally's comments on the issues we have had 12 pages of draft regulations - but they are 'draft', and there's still detail to be filled in."

However the Executive is upbeat about the progress of its bid to bring about a smooth transition to the new licensing regime.

A spokesman said: "Twelve sets of regulations are already in place and others are about to be laid in Parliament. There are also further regulations out for consultation."

He added: "The Government is fully aware of the need to put regulations in place as soon as possible, but that does not absolve boards from taking responsibility for making the Act work in their own circumstances."

The Executive says relevant parties are being issued regular updates on progress - most recently on June 26.