Licensing blitz as new laws come into force

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Licensing officers were out in force last weekend in Hammersmith & Fulham to ensure that all pubs, bars and restaurants were complying with the new licensing laws.

Ten premises which had not applied to convert or extend their licence received personal visits from officers who checked whether the premises were trading illegally. None of the premises were public houses, as all
the borough's pubs ensured their applications were received by the deadline. Of the ten that were investigated, three weren't trading and two weren't selling alcohol. The remaining five were given verbal warnings, and officers will return this weekend to ensure that the
premises are now operating legally. Any that aren't will face prosecution.

Officers also took the opportunity to check that premises were complying with other laws, including making sure that all door security staff were registered with the Security Industry Authority.

Councillor Michael Cartwright, cabinet member for environment, said:

"Although the really hard work for our licensing officers was carried
out in the run up to the new licensing laws coming into effect on 24
November, there is still a considerable amount of work to be done in
enforcing those laws. Officers worked tirelessly to ensure that all our
premises were aware of the deadline for applications, and gave them
assistance with their applications, but inevitably there will be a few
premises who ignore our advice. Anyone who is now trading illegally can
expect no leniency from the council and will face prosecution."

Any residents who suffer noise or other disturbance from a licenced
premise should contact the council's out of hours hotline on 0208 748
8588.

December 4, 2005