Business information

Pubs to face penalty heartache?

Landlords and landladies will net themselves a hefty fine or a possible prison sentence if their pub broadcasts live Premier League football matches using foreign satellite systems, warns Hertfordshire Trading Standards.

Owners of licensed premises are reminded that BSkyB and Setanta have the exclusive rights to broadcast live Premier League matches in the UK. To show games using any other satellite systems without any authority or licence is copyright theft.

"If you think that buying cheap foreign satellite systems is a quick and easy way to boost profits at your pub, think again. It could cost you thousands of pounds, your livelihood and even your freedom," said Guy Pratt, Head of Hertfordshire Trading Standards.

"Showing these games without a licence is the equivalent of stealing and it will not be tolerated. Claiming that you were unaware of the law will not wash as an excuse - ignorance will be far from bliss if you are caught."

Hertfordshire Constabulary Licensing Officer Martin Fisher said: "Not only is the use of this equipment a criminal offence, but it is also extremely unfair to those premises who pay to show these programmes legitimately. We will continue to deal with all reports of this kind of offence in partnership with Trading Standards."

Hertfordshire Trading Standards will act on complaints received by members of the public. Anyone found in possession of foreign satellite equipment, which is being used to broadcast Premier League matches, risks having their equipment seized, a fine of up to £5,000 or imprisonment.

Where licensed premises are showing matches illegally they also run the risk of having their alcohol licence reviewed.

Advice is being issued following a High Court decision to dismiss a pub landlady's appeal against her conviction for illegal use of foreign satellite systems to broadcast live Premier League matches.

Businesses requiring further information on complying with Trading Standards legislation should call 01727 813849. For consumer enquiries our advice service is operated by Consumer Direct on 08454 040506. Their lines are open Monday to Friday from 8am-6.30pm and Saturday from 9am-1pm.