Written question asked by Ross Cranston (Labour) on Monday, 5 July 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 13 July 2004. It was answered by Hazel Blears (Labour) on Tuesday, 13 July 2004 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, whether his Department has investigated the role played by off-licences in levels of anti-social behaviour in urban communities; what plans he has to target irresponsible off-licence retailers; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Ross Cranston: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his Department has investigated the role played by off-licences in levels of antisocial behaviour in urban communities; what plans he has to target irresponsible off-licence retailers; and if he will make a statement. [182791] Ms Blears: One of the four main strands of the Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy for England is work with the alcohol industry to reduce the violence and antisocial behaviour associated with alcohol misuse. The Strategy clearly indicates that this includes the off- trade. All retailers will be strongly encouraged to sign up to the national social responsibility scheme which is currently being drawn up in consultation with the on and off-trade. The summer enforcement campaign, led by the Home Office Police Standards Unit and the Association of Chief Police Officers, will target those selling alcohol irresponsibly and those selling illegally to under-18s. This will include off-licences and supermarkets.

Secondary information