Licensing Act And Golf Clubs

EDM number 1267 in 2003-04, proposed by David Davis on 24/05/2004.

That this House recognises the concerns of private member golf clubs regarding the implementation of the Licensing Act 2003; notes the potential impact of the Act's provisions on the clubs' ability, under the proposed club premises certificate, to serve alcohol to visiting players (including overseas players) who are either from non-qualifying clubs or are not members of any club, and whose numbers are estimated at between 1 and 1.5 million in England alone; is very aware of the crucial importance of the green fee income to all golf clubs from visiting players; recognises the significance of the 19th hole for members, players and golf clubs alike; is concerned about the additional costs that will be incurred by clubs in altering their licences from club licences to facilitate the serving of alcohol to visiting players and to adhere to a range of other provisions, especially in the provision of facilities for junior members; believes that private golf clubs play a vital role in the development of future golfing champions; welcomes their role in the provision of exercise for people of all ages; fears that unless action is taken, many golf clubs will struggle to survive under the new licensing system; calls on the Government to take the concerns of golf clubs seriously; and requests that the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport honour her commitment to the House, given on 24th March 2003, that she is absolutely determined to ensure that when the Bill receives Royal Assent it will be welcomed by sports clubs, large and small, and by other private clubs.

This motion has been signed by a total of 93 MPs.