Licences under threat from police action on underage drinking
Publicans who sell to under-18s or promote binge drinking could be "named and shamed" - and lose their licences - in a police clampdown planned for this summer.
News of the campaign, which will include sting operations over six to eight weeks, came following publication of new Home Office figures that revealed an 11% rise in police-reported violent crime, much of it fuelled by drink.
The report added that one in four people believe that alcohol creates problems in their area.
In March, ministers warned that pubs and clubs could face a levy to fund policing costs unless they co-operated with the police and local authorities to tackle binge drinking (Caterer, 18 March, page 6).
"Out-of-control drinking can turn a night out into a nightmare," said Home Office minister Hazel Blears. "Seventy per cent of weekend night admissions to [hospital] casualty [units] are due to alcohol and, in 50% of violent crimes, the attacker is intoxicated."
Liberal Democrat Shadow Home Secretary Mark Oaten claimed the Government has failed to tackle the problem to date and that, on average, only 12 landlords a year have been prosecuted for allowing drunken and riotous behaviour on their premises since 1997.
Pub operator Mitchells & Butler welcomed the clampdown, but said it would not support a levy.
"We are really hot on these issues," said an M&B spokesman. "If, during the summer, one of our outlets is caught out, we would support whatever action is taken against it."
Regent Inns
Regent Inns last week published its charter for responsible price promotions, to ensure its campaigns conform with existing codes. Its venues will avoid:
- Entry fees linked to "all you can drink" campaigns
- Offering free alcohol for long periods, such as free vodka between 10pm and 2am
- Offering discounted drinks for short sessions, which encourages speed drinking
- Linking promotions to unpredictable events, such as free drinks for five minutes after every England football game.
