Briefings and responses

We have long-called for the existing outdated taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) licensing laws to be updated and strengthened.

This response is focused solely on the key strategic challenge facing trading standards as a local government service.

Key messages  

The LGA welcomes this Bill which would make it easier for licensing authorities to access vital background information about drivers seeking a licence in their areas

The LGA welcomed the appointment of a House of Lords Select Committee to investigate the effectiveness of the Licensing Act 2003 and the insight that the Committee’s work has provided in a number of areas.

The LGA has responded to the call for evidence in the Government’s Review of gaming machines and social responsibility measures. The LGA’s response calls for maximum FOBT stakes to be reduced to £2, and for councils to have greater powers to limit the numbers of gambling premises in their areas.

We are calling for the Government to deliver on its commitment to hold a triennial review of machine stakes.

Many councils have concerns about the impact of clustering of betting shops on their areas, as well as the associated numbers of Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBTs).