I would have thought that provided the function room is licensed for music and dancing, and it is not packed beyond the safe capacity agreed with the local Fire and Rescue Service, there is in fact no offence committed here – after all what if someone wants to have a “rave-style disco” (:lol_teeth – that’s a brilliant example of “cop-speak”) for their birthday or charity event?

the only way I could see this being an issue is if the room being used does not have the licenses, perhaphs because promoters are not being entirely truthful to venue owners [fearful of the event falling through] and are being offered inappropriate locations (in legal terms) for the event.

This is however a clear warning that the authorities in some areas are trying to enforce PEL regulations to the letter and attempting to remove all potential loopholes that may be used to hold events outwith the licensing system.

Venues warned of rave-style disco

Publicans and hoteliers in the Forest of Dean are being urged to be vigilant when hiring rooms out to people wishing to provide their own entertainment.

Police say there have been cases where people have booked a function room for a charity event or birthday party.

However when the events took place, over 150 people turned up for a rave-style disco.

Officers say those taking the bookings should be satisfied the person and the event are genuine.

Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/england/gloucestershire/4413973.stm

Published: 2005/04/05 20:09:47 GMT

© BBC MMV