Responding to news that the number of alcohol-related violent incidents has continued to fall, the ALMR has praised the contribution being made by pubs and clubs to tackle alcohol-related problems and called on the Government to explore new definitions for alcohol-related crime.
According to figures released by the Office for National Statistics last week, the number of alcohol-related violent incidents fell from 1.1 million in 2004/5 to .07 million in 2013/14.
Figures released last week by the ONS also show that binge drinking among young adults has fallen by more than a third since 2005, from 29% to 18%. Only 1 in 50 young adults drank alcohol frequently in 2013.
ALMR Chief Executive Kate Nicholls said: “Pubs, bars and nightclubs are working hard to ensure to tackle any problems that may occur in their venues and that has been reflected in the welcome drop in the number of alcohol-related violent incidents taking place in the UK.
“Licensed hospitality businesses are working hard to contribute to positive changes in attitude and Partnership schemes such as Best Bar None and Purple Flag are delivering results, making our town and city centres safer. Additionally, we have seen levels of binge drinking among young adults fall drastically since 2005, and we believe that pubs and bars are helping to influence positive drinking habits.
“We would like to see clarification on some of the figures being presented and an exploration of the definition of alcohol-related crime to ensure we are focusing on the issues of greatest concern. We would also like to see alcohol-related incidents put in the context of overall footfall in town centres and the capacity of venues, particularly with larger venues, employing a degree of common sense.”
Ends
Leave a Reply