Trade in dark over alcohol strategy
Trade leaders fear they are being kept in the dark about plans to implement the Government's latest strategy to reduce alcohol-related problems.
British Beer & Pub Association chief executive Rob Hayward (pictured) said ministers have held no meetings with them or other interested groups to discuss implementation of the National Alcohol Strategy since its launch five months ago.
The strategy proposes a range of measures that could affect pubs, including plans for local initiatives to combat alcohol-related disorder and a review of voluntary social responsibility agreements.
It's very difficult to work out how to advise our membership if we've not got a proper steer from the GovernmentPaul SmithBeda
Most of the plans are due to be implemented between autumn 2007 and spring 2008.
"We really want to know which are the big issues for the ministers," said Hayward.
Too much unclear
"There's too much that's left unclear, and that applies to all stakeholders, including the medical profession, police and local authorities.
"Everybody was told this is a key part of Government policy. If so, we need a clear indication of their plans and the best way is to allocate time to meet us."
Bar Entertainment & Dance Association executive director Paul Smith said: "To implement the Alcohol Strategy there has to be a clear idea of time scales and parameters.
"It's very difficult to work out how to advise our membership if we've not got a proper steer from the Government."
MPs concern
Shadow health minister Anne Milton has expressed similar concerns.
In a written Parliamentary question, she asked the Department of Health how many meetings between ministers and stakeholders have taken place regarding implementation.
Milton told the MA: "People want to know what is going to be expected of them. [Those in] the trade want to behave as responsibly as they can, and therefore they need to make plans."
The MA left a message with the Department of Health but received no reply.
