Scots to give health boards licensing role

Health Boards are to be given new powers to object to licence applications in Scotland.

The move will be closely scrutinised south of the border as the Coalition Government mulls over options for including health as a licensing objective under its plans to overhaul licensing.

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said he will table an amendment to the Alcohol Bill, which would give health boards equal status to police, meaning they would be informed of all new applications.

Scotland's licensing laws already include the protection of public health as an objective.

"We need to look at whether the licensing process is working in the best interests of protecting and improving public health," he said.

"In connection with the crime prevention objective there is a clear role set out in legislation for the chief constable, but there is nothing directly comparable for the health board.

"That is why we will be bringing forward today an amendment to the Alcohol Bill that will set out a clearer statutory role for health boards."

Licensed trade consultant Janet Hood said the move was "outrageous" and would significantly increase costs.

"It will lead to considerably greater expense because if all licence applications have to go to the health boards, it is highly likely each one will be refused on the grounds that Scotland has enough premises and capacity for alcohol sales.

"It will also affect every licence variation and who is going to benefit? The lawyers."

She added: "I just don't see the point of it at a time when pubs are closing and alcohol consumption is declining.

"It will be absolutely dreadful for the on-trade. It is just one step too far."

Earlier this month, the Scottish National Party confirmed it would also press ahead with plans to introduce a 45p a unit minimum price on alcohol.