The stages of consulation
Answers to frequently asked questions relating to the legislation currently in place
The Government has advised that ‘the resulting scheme must strike a balance between protecting the public and building confidence in the safety of the industry, whilst respecting consumer choice and encouraging innovation. This is the first consultation, following which officials will be able to confirm the framework for the licensing scheme’. You are invited to submit your responses directly to the consultation details of which may be found on the Government website. The consultation closes on 28 October 2023.
Following analysis of the responses received by the DHSC to the consultation work will commence from the date the consultation closes and throughout 2024/25, in partnership with expert groups on the ‘elements that will underpin the licensing scheme, including education and training standards, insurance, infection control and hygiene qualifications and a fees model. This will inform future public consultations on specific elements of the licensing scheme, which will include assessments on the economic and equality impacts of the proposed changes. We will then work to finalise the regulations and implement the licensing scheme. We anticipate there will be a set lead in time/transitionary period before the licensing scheme is in full operation across England’. The regulations, which will set out the detail of the licensing scheme in consultation legislation, will be subject to legislative scrutiny through the affirmative parliamentary process. This means that the regulations must be debated in and approved by both Houses of Parliament. Guidance outlining the scheme requirements and scope will be published to support LAs enforcing these.
