Nick Mackenzie, CEO of Greene King, Chair of the British Beer and Pub Association, said:“Licensing regulations provide a clear example of how well-intentioned legislation can inhibit economic growth, with excessive restrictions often limiting premises’ ability to respond to changing circumstances and customer demand.

“I am looking forward to working with the hospitality minister as we speak to stakeholders from within the industry and beyond to understand current frustrations and limitations.

“I hope that we can address existing concerns and create a licensing system that reduces unnecessary red tape, accelerates the licensing process and unlocks opportunities for premises to drive economic growth across the UK.”


Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer Association said:“A review of the 2003 Licensing Act is long overdue. We are currently working with MPs to pass an amendment to permitted licensing hours at times of major national events when Parliament is not sitting. But this is just one example where the current law restricts the ability of pubs to respond to consumer demand and sell beer and other drinks in a responsible manner.

"There will be many other simple changes that can be made to the Act that will ease the ability to do business and drive more sales, invest and grow. I look forward to the quick implementation of the recommendations that the taskforce brings forward and urge the Government to repeat this exercise across a number of other policy areas where urgent reforms are needed including business rates reform, packaging reform and much needed cuts to beer duty."