New laws affect pubs

Pubs need to prepare ahead of new laws that are expected to hit soon, official group warns.

The Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) is encouraging pubs to be ready for the second stage of legislation on alcohol sales.

Following the first stage of law in April 2010, which forced pub licensees to provide free tap water, the second stage of the mandatory code focuses on glass sizes and age checks. These are set to be enforced on October 1st this year.

This may come as a shock to many pub businesses as the Coalition Government indicated that it could be scrapped.

The new laws involve pub licensees having a process in place to ask anyone who looks under 18 for ID. Additionally, they must offer wine in 125ml glasses and spirits in 25ml or 35ml measures.

Failure to comply with the mandatory code can result in a fine of up to £20,000 or six months in prison.

Wine and Spirits Trade Association chief executive Jeremy Beadles said:

“It’s vital businesses are aware of these changes and ready to comply when they come into force.”

“I'd also urge businesses, which want to see mandatory code conditions affecting them overturned, to respond directly to the government's licensing consultation with evidence of the cost imposed on their business.”