Proposed Licensing of Establishments providing Special Treatments Legislative Competence Order

Bethan Jenkins

Pre-ballot Information: Outline Proposed Legislative Competence Order

Outline of proposed Order

To make provisions about and in connection with licensing of establishments offering special treatments, in particular tanning and body piercing.

Pre-ballot Information: Explanatory Memorandum

Background

Recent incidents involving under age teenagers receiving significant burns in unsupervised tanning salons have highlighted the need for legislation to protect young people. These unsupervised tanning salons are of particular concern as they are not subject to any controls.

Current legislation is found in Section 15 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provision) Act 1982 (as amended by the Local Government Act 2003). These provisions are restricted to byelaws relating to the cleanliness of registered premises, the cleanliness of registered persons and the cleaning and sterilisation of instruments materials and equipment used in connection with the business. Section 15 does not allow for allow for a local authority to impose conditions on the registered person.

Policy Objectives of the Proposed Order

The proposed Order will give the National Assembly legislative competence over the licensing of establishments offering special treatment. The London Local Authorities Act 1991 which allows authorities within Greater London greater latitude in their licensing of premises define “special treatment” as massage, manicure, acupuncture, tattooing cosmetic piercing, chiropody, light, electric or other special treatment of a like kind of vapour, sauna or other benefits. This will then enable a Measure to be brought forward to restrict the age of clients and customers.

Support received from Cancer Society.