US terrorist attacks spark calls for security cards
The trade has welcomed news that ministers may consider introducing identity cards to improve security in Britain following the terrorist attacks on the US.
The cards, which would make it difficult for someone who did not have one - be they terrorist or illegal immigrant - to stay in the UK undetected, could double as proof-of-age cards as well as driving licences and passports.
Home Secretary David Blunkett is said to be looking at "voluntary citizen's access cards" as a possible measure to curb civil liberties in the wake of the attack.
The trade has campaigned for a Government-recognised proof-of-age card for some time.
Tony Payne, chief executive of the Federation of Licensed Victuallers, has written to the Government on behalf of members, to urge them to introduce identity cards.
"It's important for security now as well as for licensees," he said. "The only people who object to identity cards are those with something to hide."
Meanwhile, in the US, PepsiCo was one of dozens of companies which pumped funds into the stock market by buying back its own shares when the market reopened on September 17.
The attacks have also had a knock-on effect on tourism in the UK. The Ryder Cup golf tournament, due to take place in Birmingham next weekend, has been postponed until September 2002.
It is estimated the tournament's cancellation will cost local businesses up to £60m in lost revenue - with pubs among the worst hit.
The Birmingham Chamber of Commerce said: "Small hospitality companies are likely to be the worst affected. However, everyone agrees cancelling the contest was the right decision."
Outlets that rely on US visitors for trade have also been affected. American-themed bar TGIFridays in London's Covent Garden has seen a downturn in trade.
Manager Eliza Fish said: "It's been slow. We normally have Americans eating and drinking here, and at the moment, they're not coming."
Pubs across Britain took part in the European day of mourning on Friday September 14, with many choosing to stay closed for an extra five minutes as a mark of respect to the victims of the attack.
A group of UK brewers from the St Peter's, Wychwood and Black Sheep breweries were stranded in the USA for almost a week following the attacks.
The brewers were in Las Vegas at the National Beer Wholesalers Convention.
Related stories:
Pubs to delay opening as mark of respect for victims of US atrocities (13 September 2001)
People flock to pubs to watch attack on America unfold (12 September 2001)
National proof-of-age-card "by the end of the year" (20 July 2001)
Trade takes proof-of-age card scheme into own hands (18 July 2001)
Age card confirmed in writing (7 June 2001)
Government to trial age cards (31 May 2001)
Government shuns proof-of-age card (5 April 2001)
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