Lap Dancing Association criticises licensing reforms

Tue 16 Feb 2010

Plans to give residents more powers to challenge lap dancing venues in their community have been criticised by the Lap Dancing Association (LDA).

Under new government proposals, people will be able to object to a lap dancing venue on the grounds of it being inappropriate to a certain area.

Existing establishments will also be required to apply for a new licence, as they are being reclassified as sex establishments.

According to the LDA, it is prepared to fight the new curbs on the industry in court if it becomes necessary.

Simon Warr, chairman of the body, acknowledged that equality minister Harriet Harman is entitled to a personal opinion on the lap dancing sector.

However, he said subjective judgements should have no place in objective policymaking and "certainly cannot be taken into account in individual licensing decisions".

Mr Warr added that Ms Harman has castigated the 15,000 ordinary people who work in a "legitimate and legal" section of the entertainment industry as "sleazy".

The equality minister used the term to describe lap dancing clubs when the Home Office unveiled the new measures last week.

Robert Botkai, a partner at Winckworth Sherwood Solicitors, commented: "The new rules for the licensing of lap dancing clubs will come into force in April 2010.

"Existing clubs will need to apply for new licences and may face opposition from local residents, schools, churches and businesses.

"For more information on how the changes may affect you, please see our Briefing dated 16 February 2010 or contact me on 020 7 593 5004."