ACPO lead for alcohol licensing, Commander Simon O’Brien, said:
“A mandatory code that cuts down the irresponsible sale and consumption of alcohol is a welcome step. Up and down the country officers, along with partner agencies, are working hard to make streets, pubs and clubs safer. But the reality is that enforcement is only one avenue to bring about change in attitudes and behaviour.
“Licensees and those working in bars and clubs are legally responsible to use due diligence at their doors to stop already intoxicated people from entering premises.
“They are also duty-bound to refuse to serve intoxicated people.
“We expect pubs and clubs to trade responsibly. Steps to ensure that tap water is available freely, and that drinks are available in smaller measures, can help people moderate their alcohol intake.
“These codes and other effective interventions will all help to tackle some of the problems associated with the problematic sale and consumption of alcohol by a few and will assist in making our towns and city centres safer."
ENDS
Notes for Editors
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The ACPO Press Office can be contacted via 020 7084 8946/47/48 (office hours) or via 07803 903686 (out of office hours).
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The Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) is an independent, professionally led strategic body. In the public interest and, in equal and active partnership with Government and the Association of Police Authorities, ACPO leads and co-ordinates the direction and development of the police service in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. In times of national need ACPO, on behalf of all chief officers, coordinates the strategic policing response.
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ACPO’s 341 members are police officers of Assistant Chief Constable rank (Commanders in the Metropolitan Police and City of London Police) and above, and senior police staff managers, in the 44 forces in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and other forces such as British Transport Police and States of Jersey Police.