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MP WELCOMES NEW POWERS TO CLOSE DOWN BARS, CLUBS AND PUBS THAT ACT IRRESPONSIBLY

Bob Ainsworth MP wants to know about problem venues in Coventry North East.

Bob Ainsworth said:

“I believe that our country needs to change its drinking culture and I want to make sure that our streets are safe at night. The current licensing laws date from World War One and contribute to the problem. They only encourage venues that attract young people to town and city centres and our closing hours mean people are forced to crowd the streets at the same time. I want to see a greater variety of venues for the benefit of the decent majority of drinkers. The new licensing laws coming into force in November will help the police tackle problem bars and problem drinking. It will also help to prevent illegal sales of alcohol to children, whether in pubs, bars, off-licences or supermarkets.

"I voted for the new Licensing Act in 2003 because my priority is to combat anti social behaviour and protect residents. After the Act comes in on 24 November this will mean all pubs, clubs and bars - even those that didn't want longer hours - can have their license reviewed by the authorities.

"The review will be held by a local Licensing Committee – made up of local Councillors that we elect. They can punish venues by reducing opening hours, imposing strict conditions, suspending their licence, replacing the management or even take the licence away completely.

“I want the police and courts to have the power to close pubs, clubs and bars that sell alcohol irresponsibly and to have the licensing laws that the police need to keep order late at night. From 24 November if you notice a venue in your community that is encouraging anti-social behaviour or selling alcohol to under-18s then please let the council or the police know. Or you can contact me directly by writing to: Bob Ainsworth MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA or at ainsworthr@parliament.uk.”