Scots licensees round on licensing reform

A Scottish Tory and licensee has gathered over 3,000 signatures on a petition against licensing reform.

The new regulations are set to come into force in September 2009 but Borders campaigner Chris Walker - also licensee of the Selkirk Arms Hotel in Kirkcudbright - believes the system is an ineffective bid to cut binge drinking.

He claims there will also be a 400% rise in licence fees.

"The Scottish Government say there are committed to a 50% increase in tourism by 2015," he said.

"Maybe in Edinburgh and Glasgow but there isn't a hope in hell of that sort of increase here as small tourist businesses are forced out of business by red tape and endless bureaucracy.

"Here in the Borders we're getting kicked again, we don't have city centre volume, we can't take these increases on the chin.

"I have had dozens of licensees from Eyemouth to Ettrick phone or write objecting to the huge hike in costs. The fact that they have collectively gathered 3000 signatures speaks volumes."

Walker plans to visit Holyrood after the summer recess to present the petition on behalf of the hard working Border licensees.

Borders MSP John Lamont said "I have been contacted by dozens of local businesses from across the Borders who are extremely concerned about these new licensing rules.

"These regulations pre-date my election to the Scottish Parliament so I was not involved in their development.

"Frankly, I am coming to the view that the new licensing rules are not fit for purpose and I will be working with my colleagues in Parliament to ensure that the Scottish Government takes action to deal with the concerns that local businesses have.

"This is a particular problem for rural licensees who will struggle to pay these additional costs."