Licensees need to work closely with local authorities to get a grip on anti-social behaviour or there could be serious implications for the trade, says licensing minister Kim Howells.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with thePublican.com Mr Howells called on the trade to work in partnership with local councils to deal with the problems of drink-related crime and anti-social behaviour.
Irresponsible licensees could find their licences revoked or restricted under the new Licensing Bill by local authorities.
His call follows news last week that Worcester City Council is planning to take a "tough new stance" when it takes control of licensing from magistrates in July.
The council has said it plans to stamp down hard on drink-fuelled behaviour, putting the blame at the feet of the pub trade which it says is running too many drink-related promotions.
Mr Howells believes the trade needs to take on some responsibility to stem increases in anti-social behaviour in town centres.
"Licensees can't expect to make profits from pouring drink down young peoples' throats, knowing they are going to cause mayhem in town centres," he said.
"There's got to be a proper partnership approach to deal with the problems of drink-related crime in town centres and I have come across some great examples where licensees have got together with police, local authorities, bus companies and taxi companies to ensure they tackle the serious problem of anti-social behaviour related to alcohol consumption."
He highlighted the Peter Street scheme in Manchester, where pubs in the area pay for one policeman to help patrol the streets, as a good approach.
The industry has already begun to tackle his concerns. The British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) announced the launch of a co-ordinated campaign earlier this month to ensure the trade works closely with local authorities. Part of this strategy will be to deal with issues such as drink-related anti-social behaviour.
Caroline Nodder, corporate communications manager for the BII, said: "We are putting together a strategy document which will outline the policies for the trade.
"Projects like the BII social responsibility initiative and the British Beer & Pub Association's drink promotions guidelines will be included in this template.
"Social responsibility is a primary concern and we are working with a lot of bodies on this."
Tony Payne, chief executive of the Federation of Licensed Victuallers' Associations, said: "We want to work alongside local authorities, the police and magistrates to ensure the safety of everybody - as long as there is a reasonable agenda.
"If there are any problems, the local authorities and police should contact local representatives so they can work together."
Related artices:
Council threat highlights trade's licensing nightmare (5 June 2003)
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