More JPs given pub ban powers

New powers that let magistrates ban troublemakers from pubs are being introduced in a further 25 areas of the country on Monday (1 November).

It takes the number of areas where Drinking Banning Orders (DBOs) can be imposed to 50.

The powers can be applied to over-16s convicted of an alcohol-related offence.

They let magistrates impose whatever conditions they think are needed to protect the public from further harm.

This can include bans from certain pubs and shops, restrictions on entering certain areas, and bans on drinking in public.

They can last from between two months and two years and anyone who breaches a DBO can be fined up to £2,500.

Offenders who are subject to an order can be referred a Positive Behaviour Intervention Course to address their alcohol misuse - successful completion of the course can reduce the length of the order.

DBOs were first introduced on application in August 2009, and on conviction in 24 local justice areas in April 2010.

In the 12 months to 31 August 2010, 116 BDOs were issued. This includes those issued on application and on conviction.

Home Office minister James Brokenshire said: "We remain concerned about the number of alcohol related incidents and the drink-fuelled violence and disorder that blight many of our towns and cities.

"The extension of Drinking Banning Orders on conviction to a further 25 local justice areas will help local communities manage problem individuals and will also help those individuals to address the reasons for their behaviour."

National Pubwatch chairman Steve Baker said: "I welcome the expansion of their use court because it will allow the court to see the offending behaviour in relation to specific offences they've committed.

"My concern is that cuts in police budgets mean they may not have capacity to follow up and make sure these people aren't drinking in pubs.

"A lot will depend on the police working very closely with the pub trade."