Welcome to the latest newsletter from the Westminster Licensees Association – providing a round up of the latest news, the top issues affecting trade in Westminster and the vital information you need to run your business effectively. We continue to be active on your behalf and once again have a number of lobbying successes to report.

Networking: The WLA Members Event and AGM will be held on Wednesday 2nd June from 4-6pm in the Lounge Bar, Ruby Blues (formerly Red Cube), 1 Leicester Place. Come and hear the leader of Westminster City Council, Simon Milton, set out his views on the trade, licensing reform and civic renewal. (agenda)

Campaigning: following the launch of the WLA’s campaign in January to secure later running of the tube, both the Conservative and Labour Mayoral candidates have confirmed their support. A licensed retail manifesto highlighting this and other key issues was published on 10th May, check our website for the latest.

Influencing Policy: the WLA has submitted a number of position papers to public consultation exercises. Check out our latest positions on

WLA has also been working with Westminster City Council to press for a more realistic timetable for the implementation of the new Licensing Act. Current government plans would see the start of the period for applying for new licences in November/December this year. We have called for a start date of February 2005 but pressed the Council for longer consultation on local policy and a start date of January 2006 for the new regime.

Advising Members: we are committed to ensuring that we provide the best possible advice and guidance to members on issues affecting the trade in Westminster. Make sure you check out our website for the most up-to-date analysis and information on the following new policy developments:

  • Tronc: the Inland Revenue has issued new guidance on the tax treatment of tips and gratuities. Make sure you are up to date or face a hefty back-dated bill. Check out our advice
  • National Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy: the Government’s new action plan to tackle alcohol misuse will have an impact on retailers. Find out what it will mean for you in our brief guide.
  • Employment Law: the NMW increases to £4.85 per hour for adult workers and £4.10 per hour for 18-21 year olds on 1st October. At the same time a new rate for 16/17 year olds will be introduced at £3.

Kate Nicholls
23 Beaconsfield Road
London W5 5JE
tel 07958 796 238