Agenda and minutes

None

To confirm the minutes of the previous meeting.

RESOLVED – that the minutes of the meeting of the Licensing Committee held on 29 June 2020 be confirmed and signed by the Chair.

The Public Protection Group Manager presented a review of the Statement of Gambling Licensing Policy. The Committee heard that the current policy for the Gambling Act 2005 was due for its three yearly review and that they were in the process of preparing the draft policy before publishing in January 2022. During the consultation process they had spoken with a number of consultees, who it was noted were outlined in the appendixes.

Members heard that the general principles of the policy concerned three main objectives; to prevent crime and disorder, to be fair and open and to protect children and the vulnerable. The Public Protection Group Manager outlined that the policy applied to 18 licensed premises, which was one more that when last reviewed, three bingo premises and three adult gaming premises. It was noted that they were also responsible for permits for gambling machines but they had not been included.

The Committee was reassured that the policy had been prepared in accordance with the Gambling Commissions guidance. Only one amendment had been made to the existing policy about Gaming Machines. The rest of the policy remains unchanged. It was also highlighted that there had been no change to the make of Telford & Wrekin or no change in premises that warranted further amendments.

During the debate members raised concerns around whether there was any specific detail within the policy referring to their obligation to signpost warnings. The Principal Licensing Officer assured members all premises had a duty to follow the Code for Social Care Responsibility and inspections were carried out to ensure this was adhered to against a detailed checklist. The Public Protection Group Manager added that locally they worked within guidance but nationally companies needed to have social responsibility or were subject to hefty fines that kept the pressure on them. Members noted that it was about providing safeguards for those who are vulnerable and thanked them for their work on the draft policy.

RESOLVED: That the Licensing Committee recommend that the Statement of Gambling Licensing Policy for the Gambling Act 2005 is presented to Full Council for approval.