The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has welcomed the Home Office’s decision not to abolish personal alcohol licences.

In its response to the consultation, the Home Office noted that it has “listened to the views received in response to the consultation, and in discussion with partners has decided not to proceed with the proposal to abolish the system of personal licences”.

ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “Ministers announced in July their intention to remove the requirement on personal licence holders to renew their licences after 10 years. This was a positive move strongly welcomed by retailers. However, we made it clear in our consultation response that the concept of abolishing the licences altogether was a step too far.

“Personal licences provide a clear national standard of training and competence in supervising alcohol sales. They are also portable allowing individuals to move between premises without undermining the alcohol licence of the business.”

The consultation sought views on proposals to abolish personal alcohol licences altogether and instead give the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) further responsibilities in this area. ACS expressed concerns that the proposed new system would undermine the licensing objectives and create further burdens for businesses, particularly if a change of DPS is needed at short notice.