Agenda and draft minutes

To receive apologies for absence.

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors James Cantwell, Patsie Marson and Lina Savickiene.

The Chairman announced that Councillor John Baxter would be assisting him in the temporary role of Vice-Chairman for the duration of the meeting.

To receive declarations of interests in respect of any item on the agenda.

No declarations of interest were received.

To sign and confirm the minutes of the last meeting held on 12^th December 2023.

The minutes of the meeting held on 12^th December 2023 were approved as a correct record and signed by the Chairman.

To answer any written questions received from members of the public no later than 5 p.m. two clear working days prior to the meeting – for this meeting the deadline is 5 p.m. on Thursday 19^th September 2024.

No questions were received.

(A report by Anna McDowell, Senior Licensing Officer)

The Group Manager Public Protection presented a report which sought a review of the current Gambling Act 2005 Statement of Principles.

Members noted that Section 349 of the Gambling Act 2005 required that the Licensing Authority prepare, consult on, and adopt a statement of the principles that they proposed to apply in exercising their functions under the Act. The Statement of Principles must be reviewed and published every three years. A revised Statement of Principles was required, by law, to be published by January 2025

The Group Manager Public Protection advised that the policy had been reviewed and approved by the Senior Licensing Officer, subject to a few minor amendments which were outlined within the report. She suggested that following a four week public consultation, should there be no significant feedback, that the draft Statement of Principles be submitted directly to Full Council for approval subject to agreement by the Chairman of the Licensing Committee.

Members discussed the report and commented as follows:

·       Any premises would have to be considered suitable for licensable activities such as bingo.

·       The content of the policy was in line with legislation and there was no scope to make changes such as to limit the number gambling establishments within the Town Centre.

·       Different legislation related to the alcohol licencing of local village halls and community centres.

·       The Constitution contained details of delegated powers in respect of Licensing. It was suggested that further clarity be given within the wording of the policy in respect of where powers were delegated.

·       Concerns were raised in respect of online gambling for which the local authority had no powers. The Group Manager Public Protection advised that there were occasional opportunities for joint working with partners on issues such as gambling related harm, which she fully supported. Councillor Stuart Evans stated that the Council should take any opportunity to make a representation to the Government or the Gambling Commission, particularly in matters such as advertising.

·       Members were encouraged by the addition of local risk assessments within the policy.

The recommendations were proposed by Councillor Paul Gleeson and seconded by Councillor Stephen Woodliffe.

RESOLVED:

1.     That the draft Statement of Principles be consulted on as required under the provisions of the Gambling Act 2005; and

2.     That, should there be no significant feedback from the consultation, the draft Statement of Principles be submitted directly to Full Council for approval, subject to the agreement of the Chairman of the Licensing Committee.