An apology for absence was received from Cllr Bryan Sweetland.

No declarations of interest were made.

The Minutes of the meeting held on 9 March 2011 were signed by the Chair.

The Trading Standards Officer gave a presentation on the work they undertake.

Trading Standards aims to make Kent a better place to live and do business.  It enforces a wide range of legislation to protect the consumer and ensure that businesses compete on a ‘level playing field’.

Its operational work covers a broad range of activities including:-

·         farm animal welfare and disease;

·         agriculture;

·         product safety;

·         consumer credit;

·         underage sales; and

·         fair and safe trading.

The Committee was informed of the operation that is undertaken by Trading Standards to prevent the supply of harmful age-restricted goods, such as alcohol, to underage young people.

Members were invited to raise any questions that they may have.

The Committee thanked the Trading Standards Officer for an interesting and informative presentation.

Resolved that the presentation be noted.

The Senior Licensing Officer gave a presentation on licensing inspections.

The main topics covered by the presentation were:-

·         Types of Visits by Licensing Officer;

·         The Format of a Routine Inspection;

·         The Written Report;

·         Further action available; and

·         Gravesham’s Enforcement Policy.

Members were invited to raise any questions they may have.

The Committee thanked the Senior Licensing Officer for an interesting and informative presentation.

Resolved that the presentation be noted.

The Committee received the Minutes of the Licensing Panels held on 19 April, 16 June, 20 July and 23 August 2011.

Resolved that the Minutes be noted.