Irresponsible drinks offers amidst spiralling student Covid rates condemned by Newcastle Liberal Democrats, who call for Council investigation
The Liberal Democrats Opposition in Newcastle have voiced incredulity today that some venues appear to have been offering student drinks promotions amidst spiralling case rates in the City's student population, calling on Newcastle City Council's Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services to clamp down on irresponsible behaviour in the licensed trade.
Cllr Nick Cott, Leader of the Opposition, said: "With the case rate in our student population rises as high as it is, the Students' Union shouldn't be sharing drinks promotions in pubs, bars and clubs that could potentially worsen the situation.
"Our hospitality industry is a vital part of Newcastle's identity, and it deserves to survive this crisis. But it should do so through proper Government support and sensible regulation, not a cavalier attitude to the risks posed to our City's students. We're certain this is limited to only a small number of venues, but they shouldn't be allowed to give the hospitality sector at large a bad name.
"We want to see effective local co-ordination of the response to the current spike that gives confidence to students and residents alike. We're calling on the Council to investigate, and to explore the range of actions to address this matter."