EMRO and lnl should only be last resorts, ALMR tells Government
The call came in the week Liverpool City Council announced it would consult on a possible late-night levy while Islington Borough Council announced it would introduce its levy in November.
Kate Nicholls strategic affairs director for the ALMR was invited to meet Crime Prevention Minister Norman Baker last week to discuss the measures.
The ALMR has been involved in challenging levy and EMRO applications but Nicholls insisted it was right that “the process to implement them is robust”.
Nicholls described her meeting with Baker as “a constructive discussion about how to tackle alcohol related harm”.
She said: “We explored some of the initiatives our members are involved with across the country and how they are having a positive effect on the night time economy.
“We believe EMROs and levies have a place but they are measures of last resorts.”
Ceasefire
She said there had been a lull in activity during local election campaigns, which explained the recent flurry of announcements.
She said: “When you get a change of administration something like this is likely to be reconsidered. But the data from Poppleston Allen seems to indicate this is not on the radar for a huge number of councils going forward.
“The small number of levies and EMROs currently in place is a success story as it means we are addressing alcohol related harm and working proactively with local authorities. We recognise more can be done but we believe it would be indicative of a failing on the part of the trade if an EMRO had to be imposed.”
Speaking after the meeting, Baker said: “Voluntary action and partnership working can yield significant results and I am keen to see more where appropriate.
However, in some instances more robust measures may be required.
“It is therefore right that local councils have powers available to restrict the sale of alcohol in the early hours including the late night levy and the EMRO.
“When appropriate for an area, these measures should be considered fully.”
