Jeremy Allen elected chairman of Institute of Licensing

Jeremy Allen, a partner at licensing law specialist Poppleston Allen, has been elected as the new chairman of the Institute of Licensing (IOL).

Allen aims to develop the qualifications to be offered by the IOL and obtain awarding body status in a bid to enhance the standard of licensing officers.

"I believe that we are entering a difficult but potentially exciting time for the institute. It is the only organisation that can properly represent the interests of all those involved in licensing, whether they are licensing officers, police officers or licensing lawyers. I hope that I can successfully build on the considerable achievements of my predecessor, Philip Kolvin QC, and the other officers of the institute," Allen said.

During the introduction of the Licensing Act 2003 Allen was a member of the secretary of state's advisory committee and continues to assist with further amendments to licensing law.

He also advises a number of trade associations, including the BII, BBPA, NOCTIS and WSTA on all aspects of licensing law. He has also been made an Honorary Companion of the BII.

Jon Collins, vice-chairman of the institute, said: "Philip Kolvin was always going to be a very tough act to follow as chair, given the expertise, passion and commitment he brought to the institute in years past. I am delighted that we have been able to secure in Jeremy Allen the ideal person to build on Philip's work. Jeremy's vast experience in licensing matters, commercial knowledge in building up Poppleston Allen and wide range of political and business contacts will be invaluable as we seek to meet our challenging targets for the institute's further development in the years to come."

Myles Bebbington, vice-chairman of the institute, said: "Jeremy is one of the best-known licensing solicitors in the country and brings with him a wealth of experience and knowledge, not only in the legal field but also as a proven and successful businessman with Poppleston Allen Solicitors. I am sure that with Jeremy at the helm he will bring a new and exciting dimension to the IOL`s future development and build on the positive foundations put in place by his predecessor Philip Kolvin"

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By Neil Gerrard

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