Plans to scrap laws requiring alcohol licensing notices to be published in printed local newspapers is ‘devastating’ for both the local news sector and the public’s right to know, the Society of Editors has warned.

The plans, launched as part of a consultation on licensing reform, includes a proposal to remove the statutory requirement for alcohol licensing notices to be advertised in print local papers with the Society today joining industry leaders in warning that the plans would disenfranchise local communities.   

Dawn Alford, Chief Executive of the Society of Editors said: “The government’s plan to scrap the requirement for printed statutory notices for licensing applications is devastating and fails to recognise the essential role such notices play in keeping communities informed.

“Not only will the plans disenfranchise communities, but they will remove a vital revenue stream from the local and regional news industry at a time when the value of accurate and verifiable news and information has never been more important.

“The Prime Minister has said that the local news industry is the “lifeblood of our democracy” but this decision threatens not only the ability of the public to engage with the democratic process but the sustainability of the local news industry when it is needed more than ever.”

At the same time as the licensing reforms, a provision in the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill would remove the legal requirement for notices publicising changes to local authority governance arrangements to be published in local papers. 

This would strip communities of the right to know about sweeping changes to local councils – just as the government embarks upon the most dramatic reform of local government in 50 years.  

News Media Association chairman Danny Cammiade said: “Local news media in print and digital provide a highly trusted and independent environment for public notices to appear in, with local journalists often reporting on the content of the notices. 

“Developed with funding and expertise from Google, the industry’s Public Notice Portal has increased the reach of public notices online, with the print requirement remaining essential for ensuring those who cannot, or prefer not to, use digital technology can access the notices. 

“Removing alcohol licensing notices from local papers would undermine this work and leave local communities shrouded in secrecy. Ministers must change course and abandon this misguided plan.”  

The consultation, which closes at midday on 6 November 2025, can be found here.