ID scan system could be rolled out in Durham

A Durham policeman has floated the idea of tightening pub security in Consett by scanning drinkers' driving licences and passports on entry.

Durham Constabulary Inspector Dave Turner floated the idea to a local newspaper in order to gauge opinion on the proposed No ID No Entry scheme.

Under the scheme drinkers would have to scan their ID into a computer system, which would hold all the personal information, in order to gain entry into the venue.

Information copied from the IDs would not only be accessible to the licensee but also to police and local authorities.

Turner launched the idea as a means to increase safety levels in Consett.

"The idea has already been implemented in venues in the UK and other countries and it can bring significant benefits to drinkers, patrons and the premises themselves," said Turner.

"Licensees can find out customer frequencies, where they are coming from, what age range the pub attracts as well as benefiting from less disorder and full authority compliance."

However, the scanning equipment currently costs £35 a week to rent.

One Consett licensee, who wished to remain anonymous, supported the idea in theory.

"The Government should supply everyone with ID discs that could be scanned through a computer," she said.

She said she would not be willing to pay for the equipment herself.

Over the top​

The licensee of Wetherspoon pub the Company Row criticised the scheme as a "tracking system".

"It is asking too much of people," said Shelley Hobbs. "In a well-run venue, there shouldn't be the problems the scheme claims to help. It comes down to pub management — if you know your target market and crime levels aren't high, I cannot see the benefits. It is a tricky one."

Hobbs believed that the scheme could be of more use in areas of high crime and violence.

Chairman of Pubwatch Steve Baker said: "There are lots of things licensees can do working with colleagues and the Pubwatch scheme that do not require the purchase of expensive equipment.

"I would question the proportionality — whether the cost of implementing the scheme would be worth the benefits."