Red-tape curbs likely by year end, claims DCMS

Last week the Tourism Regulation Taskforce, chaired by British Hospitality Association president Alan Parker, submitted more than 80 proposals to tourism minister John Penrose as part of the Government’s Red Tape Challenge.

In particular, the Government was urged to make applying for a premises licence easier and to cut red tape on health and safety regulations.

Other proposals include flagging up tourism in the upcoming National Planning Policy Framework, streamlining planning permission procedures, and amending change-of-use orders that allow for “greater innovation in response to changing trading conditions”.

The report is being considered by the DCMS.

A spokesman confirmed: “A number of recommendations apply across eight Government departments. These have to be taken to the departments and we hope and expect to take action.”

He confirmed that any changes not likely to need legislation could be implemented by the end of 2012.