Stings plan to curb 'proxy' alcohol sales

Local authorities are set to unveil new undercover stings to clamp down on so-called "proxy" purchases of alcohol.

Independent test-purchasing company Serve Legal believes proxy purchase tests will become the "next big thing" in 2011, along with checks on serving intoxicated customers.

JD Wetherspoon has begun employing extra staff to patrol some outlets to check alcohol has not been supplied to under-18s — and for drunken behaviour.

"A clearer definition of the main drivers of proxy purchase will be identified and local authorities will begin testing in this area," said Serve Legal director Charlie Mowat. "The two key areas will be proxy purchasing and checks for serving drunks in the year ahead."

Serve Legal revealed the pub trade continues to lag behind the off-trade when it comes to asking for ID.

The average pass rate for checking ID in the off-trade in 2010 was 75% compared to 64% in the on-trade — down from 70% last year.

A pass is recorded when someone is asked for ID to prove they are over 18.

Mowat said pubs have fewer resources to invest in training and had been harder hit by the recession than stores. "They tend to be more reactive," he said.

Serve Legal noted a big discrepancy between pass rates for doorstaff and barstaff.

A total of 72% of doorstaff ask for identification compared with a 46% rate for bar workers.

The report also highlighted that staff ask for ID more often on "typical" young drinks such as alcopops (79%), lager (77%) and cider (77%) — but less so on other drinks, with ale (72%) the lowest.

"This behaviour will be exploited by both under-age drinkers and the authorities," he warned.