Pub applications show logjam ahead - Foster

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 21st Mar 2005

Figures from Bath & North East Somerset Council reveal the full extent of the chaos caused by the Government's Licencing Act, with only 2 premises having so far applied for new licences.

Commenting, Don Foster said:

"At this rate, less than 2% of pubs in B&NES will be able to serve alcohol by autumn.

"All pubs must apply for licences, whether they want to extend licences, keep them the same or even shorten them.

"Considering so few applications have been received so far, there is real threat of logjam, as last-minute applications overwhelm the council and the courts.

"Nationally, reports also paint a bleak picture, with most councils only having received a handful of premises applications.

"I have repeatedly argued for a delay in implementing the Licensing Act to allow the industry, councils and the police more time to prepare."