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Alcohol disorder
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The government is to force pubs and clubs to pay for extra policing in trouble spots branded "alcohol disorder zones".
In new proposals announced on Friday, culture secretary Tessa Jowell moved to allay fears that the law to extend pub opening hours will lead to a rise in binge drinking in urban centres.
Government Response: Department for Culture, Media and Sport
Tessa Jowell, culture secretary, said:"Our current licensing laws are creaking under the strain. That's why we're reforming them - to make our towns and cities safe for all, not a free for all.
"But eradicating trouble flashpoints through ending fixed closing, tougher police powers and greater protections for children and local communities alone won't do the job.
"The steps we are proposing today support the tough measures in the Licensing Act 2003. They send out a clear message - we will not tolerate the disorder and anti-social behaviour that blights our towns and city centres.
"We are proposing decisive action. I am confident the police, local authorities, and others will come on board with us in delivering it."
Stakeholder Response: Association of Chief Police Officers
Chris Fox, ACPO president, said: "I am delighted that the evidence the police service put forward has been listened to. The proposals announced today for consultation are extremely positive, and when put alongside the Licensing Act, provide a solid set of measures to tackle the problems of alcohol fuelled crime and disorder.
"A holistic, comprehensive approach is paramount - sensible planning with infrastructure and saturation as significant considerations; sense and consistency in the issuing of licences, with robust and regular reviews; enforcement by police and Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships and, the drinks industry adopting a responsible attitude.
"In relation to the proposed code of practice on drinks promotions, I will be advising my colleagues that where premises become the cause and focus of disorder, and are operating outside the voluntary code, they should use that as evidence to exercise their powers of closure or take other action. We will expect the courts to weigh this evidence carefully.
"Let us be clear, enforcement alone will not work. Everyone must take responsibility. These proposals reinforce that."
Stakeholder Response: Alcohol Concern
Srabani Sen, chief executive of Alcohol Concern, said: "We applaud many of the steps taken by this government to tackle the nation's binge drinking problem, but the proposals today have not fixed the fundamental flaws of the Licensing Act.
"We welcome the increased fee structure for licensing authorities, but this increase will only cover the administrative costs of dealing with applications. The extra policing, public transport and street cleaning needed for extended opening will have to be paid for by someone, and it seems the government is intent to leave council taxpayers footing the bill.
"A fairer solution would that the 'polluter pays'. Licensed premises that open later should pay extra for the privilege to cover the costs of policing and public transport. They might pass on some of this cost to drinkers through higher drink prices late at night, but this would also help curb late night excess.
"The industry argues that it pays more than enough in taxes - a weak argument when it is the consumer who really pays for alcohol duties and yet alcohol remains relatively less expensive than it was in the 1970's.
"The government must ensure that the drinks industry plays its part in tackling binge drinking. The alcohol strategy makes it clear that if industry actions are not making any impact in reducing harm, the government will be proactive in taking steps to introduce further legislation and we will be watching closely to see if words are met with actions."
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Published:
Fri, 21 Jan 2005 16:14:29 GMT+00
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