Controls Closer for Lap Dancing Clubs

11.27.56am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 23rd Jun 2008

Vincent Cable MP was one of the sponsors of a Bill which went before parliament this week tightening the licensing restrictions on lap dancing clubs and similar venues. The Bill, introduced by Durham MP Roberta Blackman-Woods, is designed to rectify an anomaly created by the Licensing Act - which otherwise allowed longer drinking times - such that sex clubs are treated on the same basis as cafés. Under the proposed Bill, councils would have effective control, through the planning system, to control the siting of sex clubs in residential areas; powers which currently are denied.

Vincent Cable said: "The Bill is not trying to ban sex clubs but to allow residents a meaningful say in where they should be sited. Residents of Twickenham will be familiar with the controversies around the club in Cross Deep. As the law stands at present, such establishments could set up in any residential area and if the council appeal then the owners could mount a successful legal challenge.