Not a Rubber Stamp'
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THE Scottish deputy Licensing Authority. Mr. L. A. Welts, expressed his mind forcibly at Kirkcaldy last week, during the hearing of applications by Robert Houston, Windygates. Fife. The applicant sought to vary three B-licence conditions by adding: " Bulk grain, lime, slag and fertilizers" within 29 miles of base.
Mr. Grosset, solicitor for Houston, said the applications published together were unopposed in so far that no objection had been lodged in the statutory period. A subsequent application for the same variation was opposed by one local haulier. His client had been informed on the expiry of the objection period in the first two applications that, on production of evidence. the LA would consider the cases in chambers. Since his client had not brought his customers to lead evidence, Mr. Grosset asked that the two unopposed applications he considered on the strength of the letters produced. and that the other be heard later.
Mr. Wells made it quite clear that he had travelled to hear all the applications listed and it was he who had to be satisfied, not the objectors. He said, I want it known that I am not a rubber stamp for the issue of licences—I have to be satisfied that there is a need ".
Mr. Grosset then asked that all applications be adjourned. . Mr. Wells said that on this occasion he would agree, but he wanted it nub!icly known that he expected applicants to come to court fully prepared to support their case and not waste the time of all concerned,