Legal high drug ban could be extended

A 'legal high' drug which has already been banned from pubs in a Scottish town could face similar treatment across the country.

Customers caught with mephedrone in Aberdeen pubs face a ban from all members of trade group Unight Aberdeen.

The move follows calls by the Scottish government for the Home Office to ban the drug, a white powder which is legally sold as a plant fertiliser.

Paul Smith, executive director of late night operator trade group Noctis, backed the move and said it could be introduced in other towns and cities.

He said: "At Noctis we're big supporters of the Unight scheme and we're currently working with Diageo to find other towns and cities where we can help to institute similar schemes.

"We recognise that if operators and police, in partnership, come to what they judge to be proper solution to drugs in venues in their area - even the ones which are currently "legal highs" - we respect and understand their decisions."

He added: "Whether this should be extended to south of the border is a conversation which should be had between the trade and the relevant authorities. We would be very happy to have that conversation and try and find a workable solution."

The ban in Aberdeen follows heightened concern about the drug - commonly known as Bubbles - which can cause health issues such as increased heart rate and blood pressure.

Patrick Browne, chief executive of the Scottish Beer & Pub Association, backed pubs taking a stance against the drug.

"I am supportive in the sense that there are clearly health issues and it is appropriate for licensees to ensure customers are not exposed to that.

"Over the years pubs have taken very strong steps to clampdown on drug use and licensing boards in Scotland have more powers to shut premises down should the need arise," he said.