MP speaks out on drink spiking
An MP has accused the trade of not doing enough to fight drink spiking in pubs and clubs.
Despite ongoing efforts to push responsible retailing, Sandra Gidley, MP for Romsey in Hampshire, believes the drinks industry should make more funding available for protective devices and awareness.
Speaking at the London launch of Spikey, a product designed to stop consumers having bottled drinks spiked (pictured), she urged licensees and the government to get involved in the issue, which she believes is largely ignored.
"I'm the only MP in Parliament who raises the concerns of drug rape," said Ms Gidley. "Corporate social responsibility is a buzz phrase at the moment but people spent time looking at environmental issues when we should be looking to save the dignity of the people who are drugged without knowing it.
"Clubs are likely to adopt it but spiking happens in pubs too and we need licensees to get involved. The government also has its head in the sand on this; we need to be doing more."
The launch of Spikey took place at the Groucho Club in Soho and was attended by designer Ray Lockett, who put the product on the market after his daughter Marilyn became a victim of drink spiking.
Also in attendance was Graham Rhodes, chief executive of the Roofie Foundation, which has helped with more than 7,000 victims of drink spiking.
"The product might not be the final answer to this problem but it will help some people and raises awareness," he said. "It is still a genuine concern and consumers and bar staff need to work to prevent it in the future."
