257Cancellation, suspension and variation in other circumstances

257 Cancellation, suspension and variation in other circumstances

257 Cancellation, suspension and variation in other circumstances

(1) This section applies if—

(a) the licensing authority considers a ground exists to cancel, suspend or vary a licence (the proposed action), and

(b) sections 254–256 do not apply to the proposed action.

(2) The licensing authority must give to the licensee a written notice that—

(a) states what the proposed action is, and

(b) if the proposed action is to suspend the licence—states what the proposed suspension period is, and

(c) if the proposed action is to vary the licence—sets out the proposed variation, and

(d) sets out the ground for the proposed action, and

(e) outlines the facts and other circumstances forming the basis for the ground, and

(f) invites the licensee to state in writing, within a specified period of at least 28 days after the day on which the notice is given to the licensee, why the proposed action should not be taken.

(3) If, after considering a written statement made within the specified period, the licensing authority reasonably believes a ground exists to take the proposed action, the licensing authority may—

(a) cancel or vary the licence, or

(b) suspend the licence for a period not longer than 12 months, unless the suspension is to give effect to a court order specifying a longer period of suspension, or

(c) if the proposed action is to vary the licence in a specified way—vary the licence in the specified way.

(4) The licensing authority may withdraw a suspension before the suspension is due to expire if it reasonably believes it is appropriate to do so.