Watchdog: alcohol partnerships work

The Government's regulations watchdog has called for a revisiting of existing partnership schemes to curb alcohol-related problems.

The Local Better Regulation Office (LBRO) said there's "no silver bullet" to resolve problems. It's a welcome approach following recent action that has targeted pubs through the mandatory alcohol retailing code.

The LBRO studied successful local schemes involving five police authorities and 11 councils.

For example, Brighton & Hove City Council's scheme to encourage activities for young people where alcohol isn't the focus. Practical advice to licensees from trading standards to avoid underage sales was given.

Elsewhere, the Campaign Against Proxy Sales in Lancashire was deemed effective by 80% of licensees, and the council spoke to more than 2,000 children for its alcohol awareness campaign.

LBRO chairman Clive Grace said: "Recent announcements have focused on the availability of cheap alcohol but most people recognise that the problem of irresponsible drinking, and the resulting crime and antisocial behaviour is a wider and more complex social problem.

"While there is no single 'silver bullet' to cure these ills, we think these examples of best practice by local authorities and police forces are worth revisiting, and have important lessons that could be applied across the UK.

"According to a Trading Standards Institute survey, over a quarter of 14 to 17-year-olds are able to purchase alcohol for themselves. Initiatives such as the ones identified in the study can lead to a reduction in anti-social behaviour and can make communities better places to live particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings.

"This is why LBRO is keen to take its work forward with local authorities to find the best ways to reduce the problem."