Not-so-happy hour...

Wednesday 07 October 2020

An industry group representing local bars, pubs and restaurants says it will not be 'getting on the lash' in response to moves to allow Happy Hours, with its boss describing the plans as "damaging."

The proposition to remove restrictions on drink promotions until the end of 2021 was brewed up by Deputy Lindsay Ash, and was supported in a States Assembly vote yesterday.

Despite the vote, it still remains uncertain if the proposition will actually be served up – that will be the decision of the Licensing Assembly.

While many islanders welcomed the step closer to cheaper drinks, Jersey Hospitality Association Chief Executive Simon Soar hasn’t found much to say cheers to in it, claiming that the shift will only drink up more profits from local businesses.

In a statement, he said: “The JHA is extremely disappointed to see this proposition was approved by States members, especially after it follows three years of damaging duty rises. 

“Far from providing a boost to the hospitality industry, allowing happy hour promotions will destroy much of the profit the industry needs to make to survive this difficult year.  

“The industry has not been consulted on this measure but there have been numerous occasions when commentators have articulated how damaging this would be."

Pictured: Deputy Lindsay Ash had been campaigning for the change in laws under the slogan 'get on the L.Ash.'

He continued: “Pubs, restaurants and bars have seen a steady erosion of any profits they might hope to make as every year the States Assembly votes to increase the duty charged on alcohol in the budget.

“All that drinks promotions will achieve is an increase in government revenue as it will receive the same impot duty from each drink sold while the business selling it will receive less in return.

“By allowing a race to the bottom on price, drinkers will naturally take advantage of the cheapest prices leaving the local businesses that provide the service with little reason to say ‘cheers’ this year and in 2021.

 “The JHA had hoped to see some leadership from the Government on this, but instead our politicians have caused further worry for members of the hospitality industry who are already facing reduced support as we head into winter.” 

His comments echoed those of Randalls boss Gavin Reid, who previously told Express what was really needed to help the industry was a new Licensing Law.

Assistant Minister Senator Steve Pallett, who previously led work on bringing the 1974 law up to date, confirmed yesterday that work on a new Licensing Law had now recommenced. 

He told the States Assembly on Tuesday that the Council of Ministers had asked him to set up a “task and finish group” comprising himself, Deputy Ash, Home Affairs Minister Constable Len Norman, and Health Minister Deputy Richard Renouf.

“This new group is being charged with developing a draft statement of alcohol licensing policy and proposing either new legislation or amendments to the existing 1974 Law as appropriate to achieve the necessary reform,” he said.

“It will aim to lodge an in-principle policy proposition for debate by the States Assembly in Q1 2021, with detailed policy and legislative proposals to be lodged as soon as possible thereafter and no later than December 2021.”