All Councils could be given new powers to crack down on alcohol-related crime under government proposals.

The Home Office has launched a consultation on its plans to combat alcohol related crime and reduce the number of health problems linked to alcohol.

The plans include new powers for local authorities to allow them to clamp down on retailers who do not follow a set of mandatory conditions to sell alcohol responsibly – retailers who fail to comply could lose their licences, have additional tough conditions imposed on their licences, or if convicted, face a maximum £20,000 fine and up to six months in prison. The plans also include more powers for councils to target problem areas where two or more sellers in one area are clearly associated with alcohol-related crime and disorder.

Councils could restrict ‘happy hours’ or pub crawl promotions; ban irresponsible bulk buy promotions; enforce the Challenge 21 policy, where anyone who looks under 21 must produce proof of age to buy alcohol; ban glass containers or ensure that glasses are collected; and make door staff check for weapons and drugs at times when alcohol-related crime is most likely.

Of course alcohol-related crime is not just down to the minority of retailers who fail to comply, it's also the responsibility of older people who buy and supply alcohol for younger people too.

Cllr. M Burton