This is the latest update on the work of the Westminster Licensees
Association.

We want to keep you informed of the Association's activities and
achievements to date and provide details of new initiatives and
legislation which will have a direct impact on your business.

Further details on each of these topics are available on our website. We
also want to hear your views and comments.

www.westminsterlicensees.org

The end of the month marks the second full year of the Association's existence, and we continue to be active and influential on your behalf. Since our last newsletter in March we have maintained a high profile in five key areas:

Lobbying: WLA was the only trade representative body invited to give oral evidence to Westminster Council's committee looking into the Government's licensing reform. We were able to forcibly express the views and concerns of the trade about the implementation of the new regime and counter the assumptions of residents and other business representatives hostile to the licensed trade. The Committee is due to report this summer. To find out more about what was said, click here.

Influencing policy: WLA continues to be actively involved in the public inquiry into Westminster's proposed new planning framework which would see severe restrictions placed on location of businesses, hours of opening and capacity. This is a threat to all businesses as it would see measures supposed to be banned under the new licensing regime introduced through planning controls. Westminster is also seeking to attach planning permissions and certificates to licensing renewals and variations bringing existing premises within the scope of the new policy. If you want to know the implications for your business, click here to see our latest submission countering the Council's proposals.

Advising members: the last newsletter featured a new item alerting members to legislative change and advising on actions to be taken. WLA will continue to develop this aspect of its membership benefits providing a one-stop shop through our website and regular e-mail service to members. This edition features a briefing on preparing for the new licensing regime. How can you make sure you are best placed to take advantage of the new flexibilities and avoid the need for costly subsequent variations or applications? Click here to find out more.

The Voice of the Trade: WLA is now recognised by all key opinion formers as the voice of the trade in Westminster and we are regularly invited to contribute to consultation exercises, comment on draft proposals and represent the views of our members. To do that effectively, we need your input from time to time. Click here to complete a short questionnaire to provide us with valuable ammunition to fight for your rights on licensing reform.

Promoting the West End: WLA is working with the Soho Business Association and the Greater London Authority to promote the benefits and features of the West End. A street event is planned in Soho on 14 June and further information will be circulated in due course.

We know how helpful it is to meet up with colleagues in the industry from time to time to share ideas, discuss issues of mutual concern and network. That is why the WLA hosts two members' events a year - one in the summer and one at Christmas - with keynote guest speakers and a range of topical issues under consideration. At the last event, DAC Andy Trotter presented the views of the police on licensing reform and set out his vision for working with the trade.

DATE FOR YOUR DIARIES: The next event will coincide with our AGM on Wednesday 23 July from 4-6pm. The new Cabinet Member for Licensing, Audrey Lewis, will be the guest speaker and it will be chance to hear first hand of Westminster's proposed new licensing policy, learn more about the work of your association and meet colleagues in the industry. It is an event not to be missed. More details will be circulated shortly but please click here if you want to attend.

This is your association and our efforts must be directed by your
concerns. So if you have a problem or specific issue of concern, please
contact the WLA for advice and action.

kate@nlcommunications.freeserve.co.uk