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The Government today (October 6) gazetted the Places of Public Entertainment (Amendment) Regulation 2006 which introduces a provisional licensing regime for cinemas/theatres. The proposal aims to expedite the licensing process for cinemas/theatres.
Under the new system, an applicant for a cinema/theatre licence may also apply for a provisional cinema/theatre licence. The licensing authority will issue a provisional licence as soon as the applicant submits the required certificates from recognised professionals certifying compliance with the essential requirements.
A spokesman for the Home Affairs Bureau said the new regime would enable a cinema/theatre to commence business immediately after completion of renovation with relevant certification by recognised professionals, pending the issue of a full licence.
"The new system provides a more business-friendly environment for cinema/theatre operators without compromising public safety," he said.
"The proposal will not have adverse impact on public safety as recognised professionals are required to certify compliance of all essential safety requirements. These professionals are registered under the Buildings Ordinance and/or the Fire Services Ordinance and subject to disciplinary action if they produce false or misleading certificates. Moreover, the Amendment Regulation empowers the licensing authority to cancel any licence (including a provisional licence) if it is satisfied that any false or misleading statement or information was made or furnished by an applicant in connection with the application for the grant or renewal of the licence," the spokesman added.
To prevent abuse, the provisional licence will be valid for six months and may be renewed only once on exceptional basis.
The Amendment Regulation will be tabled at the Legislative Council on October 11.
Ends/Friday, October 6, 2006
Issued at HKT 15:29
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