Bill to target antisocial pubs

Proposals due to be announced by the UK government today will clamp down on “a minority” of pubs blamed for alcohol-related antisocial behaviour and crime.

In addition to a ban on selling alcohol below cost price, other proposals in the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Bill will include doubling the fines for underage drinking to £20,000, additional levies for pubs and bars staying open until late, and greater licensing powers for local authorities.

The content of the Bill was established during a six week consultation period over the summer, after it was announced during the Queen’s speech in May.

Crime prevention minister James Brokenshire said: "We’re reclaiming the high street for sensible law-abiding drinkers by putting the community at the heart of licensing decisions and creating tougher powers to tackle under-age sales.

"No-one is claiming that every pub and club is a problem, in fact many pubs are a vital part of community life, but we know a minority drive damaging crime and disorder. It’s time that local people were put in charge so they can decide what the pubs and clubs in their town centres are like at night."

Alcohol-related crime and disorder are estimated to cost the tax payer as much as £13 billion each year.

Gabriel Savage, 01.12.2010