NTIA calls for Home Office inquiry into drink spiking

The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has called for the Home Office to launch an inquiry into drink spiking following a spate of reported incidents and protests which have brought the issue under the spotlight.

Across the country, women have been boycotting nightclubs and bars to highlight the problem of drink spiking and police are investigating reports of spiking by needle.

Devon and Cornwall Police piloted a scheme in which drink testing kits were made available in bars across the region. The NTIA has said the Home Office should launch a formal inquiry to examine the results of the pilot and the lessons that can be applied to the industry and policing nationally.

"The scheme found that through having on-site testing available in the night-time economy, data could be collected that would provide a more accurate picture," said Michael Kill, chief executive of the NTIA.

"Having testing available and clearly communicating this to customers was also found to have de-escalated situations - where tested drinks came back negative - and generally provided reassurance to customers who had spiking concerns.

"We believe the widespread implementation of these measures – to complement existing routine duty of care measures – is an important step in making sure everyone can enjoy a night out safely and without fear, as it should be."

The NTIA represents businesses operating between the hours of 6pm-6am, including nightclubs, live music venues, bars, pubs, festivals and entertainment venues.

Photo: Shutterstock / Pressmaster