Government proposals to tackle binge drinking have been criticised as poorly targeted and detrimental to small businesses
The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) have slammed the plans, which will give ‘problem’ pubs eight weeks to rectify anti social incidents at their establishment or face the cost of extra policing.
The ‘yellow card’ warnings are designed to combat binge drinking when pubs introduce 24 hour drinking in the autumn.
Although ministers have stopped short of the compulsory billing for extra policing, landlords believe innocent establishments will be targeted, without any real impact on the problem of binge drinking itself.
Mark Hastings, director of communications, said: “The Government admits that the overwhelming majority of the nation’s pubs and bars, regardless of their size, are well run, law abiding establishments with customers who wish to enjoy a social occasion and yet it is penalising everyone for the irresponsible actions of a minority.”
The new laws will apply to pubs within designated Alcohol Disorder Zones which have a history of unruly behavior.
However, pub owners are worried that all establishments within a Alcohol Disorder Zone will have to foot the bill if the plans go ahead, despite their positive approach to the problems of excessive drinking.
The BBPA did welcome government plans to crack down on drinks promotions, such as extended happy hours, which many consider a major cause of binge drinking.
Tessa Jowell, culture secretary, said: “Our current licensing laws are cracking under the strain. That’s why we are reforming them, to make our towns and cities safe for all, not a free for all.”
