FARMERS' MARKETS AND THE LICENSING BILL

Early day motion 940, tabled 25 March 2003 by David Heath (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 28 members.

That this House expresses its concern that the sale of locally-produced cider and wines at farmers' markets may be curtailed by provisions within the Licensing Bill; recognises that farmers' markets, country fairs and agricultural shows represent important opportunities for small-scale producers; understands that market organisers will be required to acquire a personal licence; notes that because sales of alcoholic produce usually comprise only a small part of a market's activities, and because acquiring a licence incurs significant monetary and bureaucratic costs, many organisers will not feel it is worthwhile to do so; further notes that farmers and wine growers who do hold a personal licence will only be able to apply for fifty temporary notices when many sell at around 150 venues; believes that these unnecessary costs run counter to the Curry Report's call for enhanced support to farmers' markets and rural economies; and calls on the Government to recognise the needs of small-scale producers and to amend the Licensing Bill accordingly.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 14, Labour 6, Conservative 5, Plaid Cymru 2, Labour/Co-operative 1.