Lib Dem Councillors welcome review to tackle binge drinking and cut price beer

Cllr Sallyanne Smith, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Licensing, this week welcomed the review of the last Labour Government's Licensing laws. As part of the review Bedford Borough Council is one of a select group of Councils being consulted by the Government. The proposals include new powers to give local people a stronger say when licenses are applied for, increases in fees and charges for late night licenses that will help pay for enforcement and extra Police patrols and plans for a clamp down on under age drinking and below cost sale of alcohol.

Cllr Smith said, "I welcome the review that is taking place and am pleased to see that Bedford Borough Council is one of the select group of Councils being chosen for consultation on the proposals.

"We must have a flexible approach to licensing that reflects the needs and wants of the wider community. What works in one area might not in another and Councils need to have the freedom to respond to local communities. The blanket approach from Labour was not working and their refusal to tackle off-licenses, in particular supermarkets, did not help.

"We want to help the responsible licensees and drinkers to have a good time in a safe environment whilst having strong legislation in place to tackle those irresponsible members of the community who spoil a good night out for everyone else."