Transport booze ban to start in June (From Surrey Comet)

Transport booze ban to start in June

8:25am Thursday 8th May 2008 in News By Cara Lee

Boris Johnson's public transport alcohol ban will take effect from next month.

Yesterday London's new mayor announced booze will not be allowed on the Tube, bus, Docklands Light Railway (DLR) and tram services and stations across the capital.

As of June 1 drinking from and carrying open containers of alcohol will be banned.

The initiative was one of the Conservative mayor's key election pledges. He unveiled posters advising passengers of the plans, which will now be displayed on the Transport for London (TFL) network.

"I'm determined to improve the safety and security of public transport in London and create a better environment for the millions of Londoners who rely on it," said Mr Johnson, who officially become the capital's new mayor on Monday. "I firmly believe that if we drive out so-called minor crime then we will be able to get a firm grip on more serious crime.

"The ban is supported by the Metropolitan Police and British Transport Police, and over the next month Transport for London will make the necessary legal changes and consult with staff."

"I firmly believe that if we drive out so-called minor crime then we will be able to get a firm grip on more serious crime."

Boris Johnson

Don Shenker, Chief Executive of Alcohol Concern, welcomed the ban. "Public drinking and the behaviour sometimes associated with it can , and does, deeply affect people's ability to enjoy public spaces," he said. "Taking a firm approach to public drinking in this way sends a strong message that public drunkenness is socially unacceptable and will support both the public and transport staff. This in the end, is what culture change' is all about."