Home Office minister praises pub trade

The industry has been making good progress tackling under-age sales despite the latest test purchasing stall, according to Home Office minister Vernon Coaker.

Speaking to The Publican he was commenting on the latest under-age sales figures which revealed that one in three minors taking place in trading standards operations were able to buy alcohol in pubs and bars.

The Alcohol Misuse Enforcement Campaign (AMEC) which ran from May 8 to June 8 2006 found that 29 per cent of pubs across the country were caught serving under 18s.

Mr Coaker said: "We are pleased with the progress that has been made over the last couple of years. It's just how you keep your foot on the accelerator."

On Wednesday members of the trade met with the minister along with Department for Culture, Media and Sport minister Shaun Woodward to discuss the figures and how to solve the problem of under-age sales.

"It was a very good meeting and we talked about how to move forward. I was pleased with the attitude of the industry. The collective approach of the industry is helpful," he added.

He also said it should become more routine for ID to be checked although he stressed the trade needed to work together with the Home Office and police to tackle the issue of under-age drinking.

He praised the industry for its responsible approach to the World Cup and the fact this was reflected in the lack of public disorder.

Mr Coaker confirmed there are currently no plans in place for another AMEC although test purchasing will continue.