Journal of Licensing issue 45: fresh insights, future thinking

Issue 45 of the Journal of Licensing is now live, bringing together a sharp, sector‑wide snapshot of the most important developments shaping licensing today. This edition blends commentary on live music, taxis, gambling, VAT, funeral regulation, AI, public safety and Scottish licensing into a single, streamlined read.

Jon Collins opens with a look at how the LIVE Trust is strengthening the UK’s grassroots music ecosystem, while James Button outlines long‑awaited Government plans to modernise taxi law. Julia Sawyer highlights workplace‑style safety duties in sex establishments, and PC Mark Perry explores how AI is already influencing licensing applications — with benefits and risks emerging in equal measure.

Mike Smith argues that recent revelations in funeral parlours make the case for statutory licensing unavoidable. Nick Arron explains the Government’s new approach to gambling impact assessments, and Neil Morley summarises the consultation outcome on VAT for private hire vehicles. Stephen McGowan rounds out the regulatory picture with a clear explanation of how licence‑holder liability varies across Scottish jurisdictions.

The issue closes with updates from Sue and Jenna on IoL consultations, ongoing work and recent event successes.

IoL members can download Journal of Licensing, issue 45 on the membership system. 

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