To receive any apologies for absence, including notifications of any changes to the membership of the Committee.

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Brook and Bryant.

It was reported that, in accordance with the wishes of the Conservative Group, the membership of the Committee had been amended for this meeting by including Councillor Chris Lewis instead of Councillor Hutchings and Councillor Tolchard instead of Councillor Foster.

To confirm as a correct record the Minutes of the meeting of this Committee held on 14 September 2023.

The Minutes of the meeting of the Statutory Licensing Committee held on 14 September 2023 were confirmed as a correct record and signed by the Chairwoman.

To consider a report that enables Members to make representations relating to the draft Gambling Act 2005 Statement of Licensing Policy 2025 – 2028.

The Committee considered a report that enables Members to make representations relating to the draft Gambling Act 2005 Statement of Licensing Policy 2025 – 2028. 

The Regulatory Services Manager informed Members that the Gambling Act 2005 requires that Torbay Council must review and publish a Statement of Principles every three years outlining the procedures it intends to follow in discharging its statutory responsibilities under the Act. 

The Regulatory Services Manager advised Members that the policy had been reviewed in-line with Gambling Commission Guidance and minor amendments had been made.  Members were advised that the Licensing Authority consulted widely on this Draft Statement of Principles 2025 – 2028 and the consultation period took place from 12 July 2024 to 23 August 2024. 

Resolved:

In light of the minor amendments made, the Committee noted the report and Members agreed to recommend to Cabinet for adoption at full Council in December 2024.