Scottish Indies: Rates review could aid in tough climate

By Hamish Graham

Published: 29 April, 2026

Twenty-seven years of devolved powers for the Scottish Parliament have seen distinct laws arise – be that in health, policing or education. For the drinks trade, a decisive devolved power was that of alcohol licensing. This eventually saw the implementation of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005. The landmark legislation came into effect in 2009 and saw a number of changes, including the limiting of alcohol off-sales to between 10am and 10pm, and the addition of the licensing objective of “protecting and improving public health”.

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