Mayor of London Boris Johnson and Transport Commissioner Peter Hendy were at High Street Kensington Tube Station this morning to set out plans to ban alcohol from the capital’s public transport network.
Transport for London officials are redrafting the conditions of carriage for the tube and bus network and the DLR’s ‘Rules for using tickets’ to allow staff to enforce the new rules which are being flagged up to passengers via new posters.
Speaking this morning Mayor Johnson said he was “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.”
“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. That’s why from June 1st the drinking of alcohol will be banned from the tube, tram, bus, and Docklands Light Railway.”
The new ban has been backed by the campaign group Alcohol Concern. Chief Executive Don Shenker said his body “welcomes the decision to ban drinking on all Transport for London modes. Public drinking and the behaviour sometimes associated with it can , and does, deeply affect people’s ability to enjoy public spaces.”
“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.”
Transport officials briefing journalists this morning said they expected peer pressure from passengers to play a major part in ensuring the new rules are adhered to.
Transport Commissioner, Peter Hendy, said his staff “are already working closely with Boris Johnson and his team to improve safety and security on the transport network. I am sure that cutting out boozing on public transport will be welcomed by our passengers and staff.”
