Pub trade lashes out at government over barstaff fines

The pub trade has lashed out at the government, claiming it was not consulted about new police powers which can see barstaff fined £80 for serving drunks.

The fixed-penalty fines, part of the government's campaign to tackle drink-related violence, were launched last week to a raft of complaints from licensees and trade associations.

They say they were given no warning or consultation on the new system.

Many claim the move is an election vote winner, and will not tackle the real problems of consistent offenders.

Tony Payne, chief executive of the Federation of Licensed Victuallers' Associations, said: "We were not consulted on the £80 fines although we are dealing with the Home Office on social responsibility.

"The government really needs to define what it considers a drunk to be. Is it someone who is falling down? The government needs to focus on the animals who are causing these disorder problems."

Licensee Anita Adams, of the Golden Slipper in York, was shocked when she read details of the new legislation. She said: "I actually thought it was an April Fool. I had no idea this was coming in until I read it in the newspaper and there has been no consultation with licensees.

"It has always been illegal to serve a drunk. Barstaff are not paid to do the government's job."

Paul Kenny, senior official at trade union GMB and a member of the TUC general council, said: "Whoever decided this ridiculous penalty must have been three sheets to the wind at the time."

Announcing the fines, Home Office minister Hazel Blears said: "These penalty notices will help local police tackle underage drinking and irresponsible selling which we know cause problems with alcohol-fuelled disorder."

Have you received one of the new £80 fines for serving drunks - or do you know anyone who has? Contact the news team on 020 8565 4458 or email news@thepublican.com