MPs to debate petition on safety at nightclubs

• Watch the debate (from 6pm, Monday 8 November)
• Read the debate transcript (available shortly after the conclusion of the debate)
• Follow the Committee on Twitter and join the discussion using #NightclubSafetyDebate

Tonia Antoniazzi MP, a member of the Petitions Committee, has been asked by the Committee to open the debate. MPs from all parties can take part, and the Government will send a minister to respond.

Make it a legal requirement for nightclubs to thoroughly search guests on entry

The petition, which has more than 171,000 signatures, states: “I would like the UK Government to make it law that nightclubs must search guests on arrival to prevent harmful weapons and other items entering the establishment. This could be a pat down search or metal detector, but must involve measures being put in place to ensure the safety of the public.”

In response to the petition, provided on 4 November 2021, the Government said: “The law already allows licensing authorities to impose conditions such as searches. Decisions on this should be made locally, taking account of circumstances, and there are no plans to change the law.”

What are petitions debates?

Petitions debates are 'general' debates which allow MPs from all parties to discuss the important issues raised by one or more petitions, and put their concerns to Government Ministers.

Further information

• Find out more about the role of the Petitions Committee
• Find out more about select committees

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