Drunk stings for one in three areas
One in three police basic command units (BCUs) are to take part in the Christmas campaign targeting venues that serve drunks.
The figure is slightly higher than expected and represents about 90 BCUs.
The campaign will apply to both on and off-trade premises and will also target underage sales.
A statement from the BII and National Pubwatch says the campaign will involve two main phases.
As the MA previously revealed, the first phase, from 19 to 30 November, will concentrate on "awareness raising".
Police officers and other agencies will make advisory visits giving information, guidance and support on the campaign, as well as answering any questions licensees may have.
"Think before they Drink" posters will be available to remind staff of their legal obligations.
The second enforcement phase will take place from 1 to 23 December. In this stage, police will target perceived "problem premises" and venues where clearly drunken clientele are allowed to enter.
The campaign is geared to targeting poorly managed premises that are thought to be associated with alcohol-related violence, crime and disorderBII spokesman
Series of checks
The statement says: "Officers will still be checking on overall compliance with the Licensing Act 2003, and will be targeting premises selling alcohol to underage persons and those likely to be associated with criminal or disorderly behaviour.
"Evidence gathering visits and enforcement will take place over the four weekends running up to Christmas and are likely to involve around 1,300 licensed premises nationally, less than 1% of all licensed premises.
"The campaign is geared to targeting poorly managed premises that are thought to be associated with alcohol-related violence, crime and disorder.
"It will focus on enforcing those aspects of the Licensing Act 2003 that cover knowingly selling alcohol to someone who is drunk, obtaining alcohol for someone who is drunk, failure to leave a premises and allowing disorderly conduct on a licensed premise.
Intoxicated customers
"The campaign will also include underage sales, not only concentrating on the sales themselves but also addressing the problem of young people attempting to buy or being supplied with alcohol.
"In order to have the desired impact of reducing alcohol related violence and disorder, the plain clothes officers undertaking visits are likely to focus on the offence of 'knowingly' selling alcohol to an intoxicated person.
"The vast majority of our socially responsible members already have robust training and processes in place to prevent and manage these type of incidents. Therefore, although there is no room for complacency, they should have nothing to fear from this campaign.
"However, it may be prudent and an opportune time to remind all staff to: always check valid ID if a customer appears underage; always refuse service to any customer who is clearly drunk; if in doubt barstaff should refer to their supervisor or manager."
