SIA clarifies position on doorstaff licensing

The Security Industry Authority (SIA), which licences doorstaff, has written to all licence holders to clarify Government plans to phase the body out.

SIA chief executive Bill Butler wrote to assure all licence holders that the current SIA system would continue until at least the London Olympics of 2012 before a phased transition to a new regulatory system.

"Licence holders must understand that current law remains in place and it is a criminal offence for security operatives and those deploying them to work in licensable activities without a valid SIA licence," said Butler.

"The SIA and its partners continue to ensure that the law is properly enforced."

He added: "Some of you will be approaching the time to renew your SIA licence, or you may be considering applying for your first licence. I want to assure you that it is my intention to protect the investment you have made in training and your SIA licence. I do not want to see you lose out or be disadvantaged under a new system of regulation.

Butler also stressed that the SIA would be seeking the views of licence holders and private security firms on the future regulatory system.

"As the new arrangements for regulation are developed, it is essential that we hear your views and understand your concerns. I want everyone who holds a licence to have the opportunity to share their opinions with us.

"When the time is right, I will seek your views through our many communication channels, but I urge you now to keep in touch with us. Staying informed means you can make the right decisions about your future."