Councils reveal full extent of opposition to code

By James Wilmore

- Last updated on GMT

Related tags Vast majority Local government Lga

Councils have officially come out against the mandatory code of practice - telling the government it will hammer the "vast majority" of responsible...

Councils have officially come out against the mandatory code of practice - telling the government it will hammer the "vast majority" of responsible pubs.

In its formal response to the code consultation, the Local Government Association (LGA) and Lacors says it is opposed to the new laws because they will also impose "new burdens" on councils. It says it is already funding a £100m deficit in the cost of operating the Licensing Act.

The LGA's response says : "The mandatory code will penalise the vast majority of responsible on-trade retailers at a time when the industry can not afford this."

The code is designed to clampdown on irresponsible promotions, but will also see councils being given a host of new powers to tackle problems locally.

It argues the new local powers available to councils will be "under-utilised" - "on a par with alcohol disorder zones".

The LGA's opposition to the Home Office has been "regularly communicated" it says.

Many in the trade will also welcome the LGA's comments on the responsibilities of the off-trade.

"Below cost selling is an issue focused almost solely on the off-trade," it says in its submission. "There is a close link between the consumption of alcohol purchased in off-licences and disorder and public nuisance occurring in or near on-licensed premises.

"Any further regulation of the on-trade must be balanced with measures to address off-sales; a focus on price is one such potential measure."

The LGA also offers support for the pub industry saying: "Well run local pubs provide a social and economic hub in many communities, and councils are keen to support the industry in difficult economic times."

Related topics Legislation

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