Among the suggestions made in a draft discussion document with the title 'Reforming the law relating to markets' are that all market operators, with the exception of local authorities and statutory bodies that operate markets, should have to apply for a licence from an appointed central government body.
The federation does not think the granting of licences should become the responsibility of local authorities. It believes a licensing system for markets, including car boot sales, would rid the industry of undesirable elements.
More controversial is the suggestion that all retail markets traders should have to acquire a licence on a two-tier system.
The federation would want to see specified grounds, such as criminal trading activities or serious criminal offences, under which market traders' licences could be revoked.
Its document has gone before the Campaign for Quality Markets which includes in its membership the National Association of British Market Authorities and the Institute of Market Officers.
No immediate approach to parliament is being made.
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