Hosts are made "scapegoats

Trade concern is mounting at the way police and councils are targeting designated premises supervisors (DPSs) as a 'scapegoat' in tackling problem pubs. A number of hosts have lost their jobs after the authorities applied for them to be removed from their posts at pub licensing reviews.

One trade leader urged DPSs to register their interest with the licensing authority if a pub¹s premises licence is held in the name of a pubco or other operator. Federation of Licensed Victuallers Associations chief executive Tony Payne has warned a DPS is at risk of being hung out to dry without proper representation if a pub¹s licence comes under review.

'If a DPS is in trouble and any notice of review goes direct to a separate premises licence holder there could be a conflict of interest. 'I would strongly advise a DPS to be independently represented at any review hearing.'

MA legal editor Peter Coulson said: "Taking away someone¹s livelihood should only be chosen as a last resort, but some committees might see the removal of the DPS as the easy option when things go wrong and some operators might consider the sacrifice of a manager as an acceptable price to pay.

"I would always advise a DPS to be separately represented at a review." Manchester-based licensing solicitor Tony Lyons said the issue of DPS 'scapegoating' was becoming a common scenario. "When the police or licensing authority complains one of the key requirements now seems to be the head of the DPS on a plate. "Often they are good operators and companies do not want to lose them, but they are placed in an impossible situation," he said.

A number of licensees have been stripped of their DPS status in recent weeks:

*South Gloucester. The licensing committee ordered the removal of DPS James Dick from his post at the Queen¹s Head, Willsbridge, after local residents complained about loud music and unruly behaviour from customers. Pub opening hours were also cut back.

* Blackpool. DPS Kelvin Moran lost his job at the Punch Taverns-owned Clifton Arms at Marton for health and safety shortcomings following a routine inspection.

* Bradford. The Blue Pig in Fagley Road was closed down for 28 days with designated premises supervisor Christopher Wilmore removed from his job at the pub and also at its sister pub, the New Inn, Windhill, Shipley