The industry-led licensing taskforce report on licensing policy and the government's response. 

Licensing policy sprint - The UK Licensing Act 2003 has reached its twentieth anniversary. The act came into force in 2005, pioneered by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Tessa Jowell, with the recognition that businesses in England and Wales covered by licensing regimes deserved to have a more responsive and flexible system to meet the needs of a modern vibrant society. These reforms in the 2000s recognised that licensed businesses and the services they provide are important culturally, socially as well as economically – and are central to creating places people want to live, work and visit – borne out by unlocking investment in high streets and the flourishing of casual dining and cafes in the early years of the act.

Licensed businesses are a critical part of the creative life of our town and city centres, our internationally renowned live music, tourism and visitor offer – and as important are everyday community and grassroots hubs. The original ethos behind the act was outlined in the statutory guidance from the time, which set out 6 principal aims:

• the introduction of better and more proportionate regulation to give businesses greater freedom and flexibility to meet their customers’ expectations
• greater choice for consumers, including tourists, about where, when and how they spend their leisure time
• the encouragement of more family-friendly premises where younger children can be free to go with the family
• further development within communities of our rich culture of live music, dancing and theatre, both in rural areas and in our towns and cities
• the regeneration of areas that need the increased investment and employment opportunities that a thriving and safe night-time economy can bring
• the necessary protection of local residents...

Licensing taskforce report: UK government response - The government welcomes the licensing taskforce’s report. This process involved a variety of interested stakeholders, and a range of views were expressed throughout. Ultimately the report includes a bold and forward-looking set of recommendations that the government is keen to explore. As this government continues to drive economic growth, regenerate our high streets and support vibrant and healthy communities, it is clear that a modern, proportionate, and enabling licensing system is essential. This report provides a timely and pragmatic blueprint for reform – one that reduces unnecessary burdens and empowers local areas to unlock the full potential of their hospitality, cultural and night-time economies. The government recognises that the original intention of the Licensing Act 2003 – designed to enable vibrant, culturally rich and economically dynamic communities – has, over time, become diluted by disproportionate regulation and inconsistent application. On 31 March 2025, the Prime Minister committed to a government-wide target to cut the administrative costs of regulation by 25% by the end of this Parliament. We are committed to reducing the costs of doing business in the UK by restoring the founding ethos of flexibility and growth, while maintaining a firm focus on the licensing objectives, particularly the prevention of crime and disorder....