Chief Executive of the British Beer & Pub Association Emma McClarkin said:
“As an industry we work hard to make sure people feel safe in their local pub. However, venues alone can’t overcome this issue and that’s why our members work closely with local authorities and the police at a local level to prevent spiking. A national coordinated campaign that is supported by Government is a welcome recommendation that will help to address the issue, support victims and target perpetrators.
“We welcome the Committee’s recommendations on improving data collection to better understand the issue and we are ready to work with the Home Office and other partners on this. Where incidents of spiking do take place in pubs, our members are also committed to working closely with the police to bring perpetrators to justice, and we support the Committee’s recommendation to make spiking a criminal offence to make this process easier.
“As part of ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of customers, earlier this year we developed guidance alongside other leading hospitality bodies, on how pubs, bars and clubs can help people to feel safe in their venues and we will continue to share with our members and other hospitality businesses.”
Notes to editors:
About the British Beer & Pub Association
The BBPA represents companies in the UK which between them brew over 90% of the beer sold in the UK and own 20,000 pubs. Our members include international companies, family brewers, managed locals, and the nation’s largest tenanted pub estates.
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Press release from BBPA
For more information or to arrange an interview please contact Jessie Powell on jpowell@beerandpub.com / 07772245620