Jon Foster: Enhancing the Licensing Act for a Healthier Society
A number of them are international trends. But looking specifically at licensing and the impact of the act itself, there's definitely a common view from the people that I spoke to and interviewed that it had been a big step forward in terms of coordination on a day-to-day level, that licensees talked much better with local authorities and within local authorities the trading standards and the police and licensing offices were all much better coordinated.
Ever wondered how UK alcohol policies shape our communities? In this episode of the Alcohol Alert Podcast, Jon Foster, the senior research and policy officer at the Institute of Alcohol Studies, sheds light on the intricacies of the Licensing Act (2003). With over a decade of implementation, Foster dives into its successes and shortcomings, offering a fresh perspective on what needs to change. He highlights how better communication between licensees and local authorities can make a world of difference.
Foster also stresses the need for specialist legal advice for local authorities to make informed decisions. His recommendations include locally set fees and promoting sustainable economic development, all aimed at making the act more effective. One of his key suggestions is introducing nationally set opening hours for off-trade alcohol sales to curb consumption. Foster's insights are a wake-up call for anyone interested in public health and policy. He emphasizes the importance of clear guidance and a strategic approach to licensing.
This episode isn't just for policy wonks; it's for anyone curious about how alcohol laws affect our daily lives. Tune in to gain valuable insights and understand the broader impact of the Licensing Act on UK society.