LAP DANCING CLUBS TO FACE ANNUAL REVIEW

12.00.00pm GMT Fri 28th Nov 2008

Stephen Gilbert collects signatures for petition for a change in the law on lap dancing

Stephen Gilbert, the Prospective MP for Newquay who has been campaigning against the increase in lap dancing clubs in the town, has welcomed the news that the Government are thinking of an annual review of existing lap dancing club licences.

The Home Secretary, Jacqui Smith MP, announced the likely change in policy in an interview with the BBC.

Stephen Gilbert said: "This is the clearest signal yet that the Government have listened to the concerns of people in Newquay, and other towns in the country, who want to see tighter controls on lap dancing clubs."

The Lib Dem candidate added: "As well as giving local people more of say in where and when these clubs may open, we are also likely to see all existing licences come up for review each year. That will mean people living near lap dancing clubs will have a regular opportunity to raise concerns with the local Council. This is exactly what we have been campaigning for and I now hope the Government will create the Parliamentary time to get the law changed as soon as possible."