BarTalk

What do you think of Gordon Brown's review of licensing reform?

John Ellis

Crown Inn

Oakengates

Shropshire

I wonder if Gordon Brown will look at returning licensing to magistrates and refunding my money for completing my part of the bargain, in getting through the expensive and time-consuming legislation?

I won't be holding my breath.

I wonder if the BBPA and other bodies who "spoke on my behalf" will stick to their original idea that it was a good move? Still not holding my breath!

Suzie Dreja

Royal Oak

Southampton

Hampshire

I think it would be an absolute liberty. Licensees have invested a huge amount of time, effort and money instigating the law - they should have thought it through properly to start with. The possible U-turn seems all the more bizarre because the police have reported that the Act is curbing drink-related problems. There are more important issues in the UK than flexible opening hours.

Steve Haslam

Cutter Inn

Ely

Cambridgeshire

I didn't think it was a good idea to start with, so I suppose I would be in favour of a review. I think the idea that a licensed premises, particularly a pub, should be open for any longer than normal trading hours is ridiculous. There's a nationwide shortage of properly-trained staff and when do you clean and restock the pub? I think a general tightening of the reins would be a good thing.

Tricia Baldwin

Goat & Tricycle

Bournemouth

Dorset

We actually had some of the Labour Party in the pub when he was making the speech -

I'm pleased to report that they were very well-behaved! I'm not sure if a review is necessary, not many people are abusing it and the vast majority of licensees just use an extra hour on the weekends. I would be irritated if we were not allowed to open for that extra time, it does make a lot of difference to our business.