| The Ferry Inn patron was upset when he found the cost of his usual 250ml glass of wine had increased from £2.40 to £3, but was outraged when told the rise was due to an agreement reached by the city’s licensing board and Licensed Trade Association.
The new minimum pricing policy for alcohol was agreed last year after concerns about a binge drinking culture in the city.
The new rules — which stipulate the minimum price to be charged for a pint is £1.50, £1 for a 25ml spirit and £1.50 for a 125ml glass of wine — are tied in with code of conduct and licence conditions for the regular extension of pub opening hours.
Jeff Stewart, of the Ferry Inn, said he understood customers’ concerns. He said a regular of more than 30 years had told him he would not return to the pub because of the new pricing charter.
Mr Stewart said, “One of the conditions of the regular extension of licensing hours is minimum price charging on several items. We do a 250ml glass of wine (at £2.40) and this policy means we have got to put it on at a minimum of £3. That is a 25% increase, but, unfortunately, it is not our decision to make.”
Licensing board chairperson Neil Powrie said today the charging policy was agreed “amicably and unanimously” at the licensing forum in September last year. Any concerns with regards to its operation should be formally brought before the licensing forum for further discussion.
Mr Powrie said, “The proposal dealing with minimum price went to a meeting of the licensing board on September 29 last year.
“The licensing board took the decision (minimum price policy) after full and frank consultation with the licensed trade and with their wholehearted agreement.” |
