Minister to tackle illegal drinking on buses

The meeting is part of the Minister’s efforts against the abuse of alcohol and its consequences for health, road safety and anti-social behaviour.

Minister Attwood said; “Some bus operators are allowing young people to consume alcohol on the way to nightclubs and other venues. That poses health, road safety and behavioural problems for the young people involved. What they need to fully grasp is that it is also an offence, carrying a maximum fine of £1,000, to consume alcohol on a public service vehicle. I have instructed DVA to conduct targeted operations against alleged coach operator offenders.

“I am meeting with bus and coach operators today to make them aware of their legal responsibilities regarding passengers consuming alcohol on board their vehicles and to bluntly warn them of the risk to their licences if they fail to act responsibly. This is a parallel meeting to last week’s with the nightclub owners. The political and public spotlight is firmly fixed on the irresponsible nightclub and coach operators.”

The Minister has also instructed officials to consider ways of improving the current arrangements in order to deter people from drinking on buses, and if necessary to recommend changes to the law.

He added: “I am exploring measures to help put an end to unacceptable and unsafe behaviour on buses. Irresponsible operators must get their act together – this meeting is to make sure they do and that the law will make them do so. The many good coach operators will receive my support. Good practice will be acknowledged – those who offend should live up to their standards.”