BII comments on the first year of the Licensing Act

23-Nov-2006

 

John McNamara, BII Chief Executive said, “One year on from the start of the Licensing Act 2003 it appears that the Act is working and there is evidence that the demise of the terminal hour and the introduction of staggered closing time is really making a difference to our town centres. I am heartened to hear that many police forces are saying that the Act is working, particularly in high density areas such as Birmingham and parts of London.

“However it will take more than an Act of Parliament to change the culture of binge drinking in this country. The use of,  and investment in, street corner partnerships such as Best Bar None, PubWatch/ ClubWatch and Business Improvement Districts, and of course BII membership, are the only way to foster positive night time experience. BII supports these measures and our members are key players in these schemes.

“We need to encourage licensed retailers in all parts of the country to get involved in these initiatives and to support their staff through qualifications to ensure that they are operating responsibly.”




Email melanie@bii.org
Contact Melanie Taylor Communications Manager 01276 417863