Drinking Banning Orders extended
The power to impose Drinking Banning Orders (DBOs) on conviction has been rolled out to a further 25 local justice areas, the Home Office has announced. DBOs are designed to tackle persistent alcohol related anti-social behaviour, allowing magistrates to attach conditions such as banning people from drinking in public or visiting licensed premises. The orders can last from between two months and two years and breaching can result in a £2,500 fine. See here for DBO guidance [pdf].
Licensing reform proposals in the news
The somewhat controversial Home Office Licensing Reform proposals have continued to hit the news, today sparked by backing for the reform from Open All Hours, a network of civic societies and residents groups. The Telegraph reported 'Passive drinking' blighting town centres in response to a press release from the civic movement group. However many sections of the licensed trade have spoken strongly against the proposals and the consultation process.
It is still unkonwn whether many components of the proposals will be adopted, such as powers for health authroities to make representations or how a 'below cost ban' would be implemented. See here for a new comment exploring class and the licensing review and an exploration of policy from The Publican.
Community Pubs Minister appointed
Conservative MP Bob Neill has been appointed as Community Pubs Minister, the Morning Adverstiser reports. Trade groups such as CAMRA and the BBPA welcomed the appintment after the former post of Pubs Minister had been scrapped along with the £4.3 community pubs fund.
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