Public want pub ID checks & training

The public think better training and tougher ID checks — not curbs on pub or shop promotions — are the best ways to cut alcohol-related crime.

That's a key finding of an Ipsos MORI survey of 1,710 adults, commissioned by the Government for its consultation into the mandatory alcohol retailing code.

It helps explain the tough age-check requirements in the code — licensees face up to six months in jail or a maximum £20,000 fine for failing to ID anyone who looks under 18.

The survey, made public following last week's announcement on the code, asked what would be the most effective proposal to reduce alcohol-related crime and disorder in their area.

More than half (51%) went for greater use of proof-of-age schemes — 83% want Challenge 21 to be a legal requirement.

And 47% said more staff training — 78% support compulsory training to "best practice" standards for barstaff in problem areas.

Restrictions on pub and club promotions was favoured by 35%, with 34% choosing curbs on supermarket discounting.

For the on-trade, 61% agree that drinks promotions cause people to drink more.

Most want action against off-trade deals too: 27% want bans on promotions in hot spots, while 23% want some other kind of restrictions.

However, 37% say off-trade deals should not be banned; a significant minority, which helps explain the lack of action against supermarket discounting in the code.

Meanwhile, 91% believe alcohol and drunkenness contribute to crime and disorder locally; 35% say it contributes a lot, 34% a moderate amount and 22% a little.

The 1,710 responses were included among the 7,000 taken into account for the Government consultation.