New guidance for pub ID checks
The Home Office has released guidance to help pubs and doorstaff spot and deal with ID that's used fraudulently to buy alcohol.
The 44-page guidance, accessible on-line, includes detailed advice on how to identify legitimate passports, driving licences and PASS (Proof of Age Standards Scheme) cards.
It outlines some commonly-used counterfeit ID such as the "international driving permit" and "provisional motorcycle licence".
The guidance warns operators to be wary of the growing trend for youngsters to use genuine ID belonging to older siblings.
As the Morning Advertiser revealed earlier this month, the document includes separate sections aimed at doorstaff and venues - with key advice on storing and recording IDs that have been seized.
The doorstaff section carries tips to make sure the young person isn't using someone's else's ID.
Advice includes asking for the postcode on the ID, for their star sign or to see another form of ID such as a bank card.
The guidance also includes examples of best practice around the country, and it links to warning posters that can be displayed in venues.
It was compiled after feedback from PASS, the Security Industry Authority, the National Union of Students and others.
"This group identified the biggest issues in dealing with fake/misuse of ID incidents as the lack of guidance and the law being difficult to interpret," said Home Office minister James Brokenshire.
"This guidance outlines the appropriate legislation and presents a collection of the good practice to be found across the country.
"It is not intended to be prescriptive, or support one approach over another, but to promote innovation and effective practice that is appropriate to local needs."
PASS chairman Robert Humphreys said: "This new guidance gives most welcome clarification on the law and best practice where there has been much confusion.
"Local practice and local official guidance have varied widely across the country, making the elimination of false ID more difficult.
"There should no longer be any doubt about the correct steps to take when such documents are presented, thereby greatly helping police, trading standards officers and staff on the door or selling alcohol to ensure that those entitled to enjoy a drink can do so easily, and those who are not are dealt with appropriately."
Access the guidance here: http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/alcohol/false-id/false-identity-guidance
