ADZs and smoking ban key issues for Labour

Alcohol disorder zones (ADZs) and a smoking ban have been set out as key manifesto commitments by the Labour Party.

The party said that it believes alcohol fuels anti-social behaviour, and it supports the idea of paid-for-policing.

Announcing Labour's plans for the next five years, the 112-page document says: "Local police will be able to designate ADZs to help pay for extra policing around city centre pubs and clubs, with new powers to shut down premises selling alcohol to underage drinkers."

The party said it would legislate to ensure that all enclosed public places and workplaces, other than licensed premises, will be smoke-free.

The manifesto underlined Labour's intention to ban smoking in pubs serving food.

The Conservative Party's 20-page manifesto set out its commitment to tackling anti-social behaviour in communities, but neglected to mention a policy on smoking - or any other policies affecting the pub trade. The Liberal Democrat manifesto promised a crackdown on drink-related disorder by charging larger venues for policing.

It would introduce a complete ban on smoking and clearer alcohol labelling, but has no plans to introduce ID cards.

Michael Howard is the pub trade's favourite candidate for Prime Minister, according to a poll of more than 450 licensees on thepublican.com. TV chef Jamie Oliver beat Tony Blair into second position, polling 23 per cent of the vote, with the Labour leader taking 20 per cent.

A full report on the major parties' manifestos will be on thePublican.com next weeek.