LICENSEES, including pub landlords and take-away owners, are being urged to respond to a major survey about new laws.

Sweeping reforms are due to come into force next March affecting all licensed premises as the Government tries to cut down on late-night anti-social behaviour and disorder.

But from more than 400 surveys sent out by Worcester City Council on the plans, less than 20 have been returned and officials say they must have them by the end of the month.

"As part of the run-up to the new Act, we have a statutory requirement to consult with everyone whose business will be faced with change - some of which is quite radical and potentially far-reaching," said Martin Gillies, environmental health manager at the council, who has extended the deadline to give licensees more time.

"The cut-off time for views to be heard was officially Monday, November 1, so time is definitely running out. We're not saying that this represents the final opportunity for licensees to have their say on the issues involved, but we are saying that it's probably the best."

Changes include responsibility for issuing pub and club alcohol and entertainment licences switching from magistrates to councils and the introduction of a new 10-year personal licence.

"The introduction of separate personal and premises licences should be seen as a major new approach, and I'd have thought that licensees would have welcomed an opportunity to have their say," added Mr Gillies.

"Not least as the proposed new laws give local authorities the power to prevent offending pub licensees from running a pub anywhere in the country - not just Worcester."

Whitehall has called on council leaders to complete a formal licensing policy statement by Monday, February 7, ahead of formal adoption by councils.

Details of the changes are posted on the city council's website at www.cityofworcester.gov.uk and licensing officers can also answer queries on 01905 722213.