Pubs can boost property prices

Having as many as 10 licensed premises per square kilometre can boost property prices by 2.8%, according to a report by the Economic Journal. However, living too close to a pub can have a negative effect on prices, because of the associated high levels of criminal damage.

OFT clears Punch InnSpired deal

The Office of Fair Trading has cleared the acquisition of InnSpired by Punch Taverns. Since announcing the deal to buy the 1,064-strong estate for £335m, Punch has sold on 545 pubs to a company managed by County Estate.

Tories backing ID card scheme

The Conservatives will back Government plans to introduce ID cards. The shadow cabinet announced its support ahead of Monday's Commons vote to introduce them. The Liberal Democrats claimed the plans were "deeply flawed".

Absent landlord keeps pub closed

Gateshead police closed the British Lion pub in Carlisle Street, Felling, after they discovered the licensee had not been at the premises for several months. Staff have been told they risk a £2,500 fine and six months imprisonment if they continue serving customers.

Noise crackdown at Guernsey pubs

Guernsey police and environmental health officers have launched a crackdown on noisy pubs and clubs in the St Peter Port area. Police will advise licensees in breach of the regulations of the right steps to take, with prosecution being the last resort.

Field hospital' plan for Cardiff

Cardiff is set to follow Swansea's lead by introducing "field hospitals" for drunken revellers over the festive season. Paramedics have also begun using a 4x4 vehicle to respond to calls outside pubs and clubs.

Police target illegal door staff

Police in South Wales have launched a crackdown on illegal door staff. Operation Arrowhead seeks to ensure all door staff are Security Industry Authority (SIA) registered. Police have also been making customers aware of the dangers of drink-spiking.