CLUBS MUST FIND FIX FOR DRUG USE

NIGHTCLUB owners have been ordered to clamp down on drug abuse as figures
released by the Home Office exposed the extent of the problem in the north
west. Clubs risk losing licences unless they comply with guidelines
designed to limit risks brought about by substance abuse.

A paper published today (Thursday) admitted that trying to persuade dance
fans not to use drugs was largely futile.

Research released by the Home Office suggested unprecedented drug use was
endemic in nightspots frequented by young people.

The report explained: "Some clubbers will start an evening by drinking
alcohol, go on to snort a few lines of cocaine, then take a couple of pills
in the club, smoke some cannabis to 'take the edge off', perhaps consume
more alcohol and, on returning home, use depressant drugs to ease into
their 'come down'."

The revelations came as Manchester police accepted the battle against
recreational drugs could no longer be a top priority as they needed to
concentrate on heroin and crack addicts.

Risks

Drugs Minister Bob Ainsworth said: "Although drug use has stabilised
nationally, unfortunately for many club goers illegal drug use has become
an integral part of their night out.

"Club owners and dance promoters have a duty to make sure that they have
done everything possible to reduce the risks to their paying customers."

Licensing authorities will ensure clubs provide adequate supplies of
drinking water, prevent overcrowding, ensure ventilation, and take steps to
prevent overheating. A room should be set aside for those suffering from
drug-related difficulties.

Superintendent Garry Shewan, city centre commander, said: "I am not so
naive to imagine that there aren't clubs in Manchester where drugs are
taken and in many cases people take them at home before going out in the
evening."

Mike Schofield the inspector in charge of licensing and drug issues in the
city centre, said: "Three months ago we set up a safer clubbing working
group made up of clubs and other agencies. As part of that we have offered
the use of our drugs dog to clubs to ensure people are clean of drugs
before they go in and also point out to staff hotspots which drug dealers
might use."