Written question asked by Patsy Calton (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 12 June 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 25 June 2003. It was answered by Richard Caborn (Labour) on Wednesday, 25 June 2003 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Dept for Culture Media and Sport

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what plans there are to ensure that the costs to local authorities arising from the administration, inspection and enforcement of licences, as proposed in the Licensing Bill, are met (a) from the fees payable and (b) by direct central government funding.

Answer: Mrs. Calton: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans there are to ensure that the costs to local authorities arising from the administration, inspection and enforcement of licences, as proposed in the Licensing Bill, are met (a) from the fees payable and (b) by direct central Government funding. [119863] Mr. Caborn: The fees for licences, certificates and notices under the Licensing Bill will be set at a level which provides for full cost recovery in respect of administration, inspection and enforcement. The Government will monitor the levels of fees and it will be open to bodies such as the Audit Commission, after a reasonable period, to report to the Secretary of State on any indications that the level of fees might not be leading to full cost recovery for licensing authorities. Where an exemption from fees has been granted by Government, the associated costs will be met from central Government funds.

Secondary information