The Licensing Sub-Committee of Havering Council met on Wednesday 11 March 2026 to consider an application to review the premises licence for Neyzen Restaurant. Following a review of the evidence presented, the Sub-Committee decided to revoke the licence for the premises.

Review of Premises Licence for Neyzen Restaurant

The Licensing Sub-Committee considered an application to review the premises licence for Neyzen Restaurant, located at 290 North Street, Romford, RM5 3AB. The application was brought by the Home Office Immigration Department following an immigration enforcement visit on 1 May 2025, which identified two individuals working illegally at the premises.

The Home Office representative stated that illegal working undermines the licensing objectives, specifically the prevention of crime and disorder. During the enforcement visit, two individuals were found working without the right to do so. One admitted to working for approximately a year, being paid in cash, and not paying tax or National Insurance. The other individual's skilled worker visa had been cancelled, and he was working in breach of his visa conditions. The manager on duty confirmed that the licence holder, Badrul Haque, was responsible for recruiting staff.

Further concerns were raised regarding an outbuilding at the rear of the premises, which contained a mattress, bedding, and personal belongings, suggesting it was being used as accommodation. This was described as a clear indicator of labour exploitation and a potential sign of modern-day slavery.

The licence holder, Badrul Haque, stated that he was simply the premises licence holder and did not get involved in the day-to-day activities. He explained that due to health issues, he had granted a tenancy to HAZ 21 Ltd. However, the Home Office representative pointed out inconsistencies in the tenancy agreements provided and noted that company records indicated a close link between the licence holder and individuals connected to HAZ 21 Limited.

The Sub-Committee heard that the licence holder was unable to satisfactorily answer questions about the four licensing objectives, indicating a lack of competence. After considering all submissions and relevant guidance, the Sub-Committee determined that the appropriate and proportionate action was to revoke the premises licence for Neyzen Restaurant. The decision was made on the grounds that the licence holder had failed to meet the licensing objectives, specifically the prevention of crime and disorder, due to the employment of illegal workers and the associated exploitation concerns. The licence holder has the right to appeal this decision to the Magistrates' Court within 21 days.