Agenda item

Report of the Director of Markets & Consumer Protection.

The Committee considered a report of the Director of Markets and Consumer Protection that sought approval to the 2015/15 fees for Massage and Special Treatment Licences.

The Comptroller and City Solicitor advised Members of the Supreme Court Decision in relation to Hemming vs. Westminster City Council. Members were advised that the Supreme Court concluded on 29 April 2015 that fee schemes could include the costs of enforcement against un-licensed premises as part of a separate fee. The decision to include administration, procedural and enforcement costs into one fee had been deferred to the European Court of Justice.

In response to a Member’s question, the Comptroller and City Solicitor advised that the provision of Fish Pedicures could form part of a Massage and Special Treatment Licence but the processes must meet industry standards.

In response to an additional Member’s question, the Director of Port Health and Public Protection advised that enforcement officers would visit a potentially un-licensed massage parlour on Middlesex Street, E1.

RESOLVED – That the Massage and Special Treatment fees for 2015/16 be approved.