MPs launch formal inquiry into drink spiking

MPs have launched an inquiry into drink spiking following rising reports of incidents in bars and nightclubs across the country.

The Home Affairs Committee is aiming to better understand the prevalence of spiking and whether the response by police and night time industries can be improved.

It follows numerous cases of people claiming to have been injected with needles or sharp objects while on a night out.

Last month a bar in Tunbridge Wells was closed after seven people reported they may have been spiked – including two who suggested a substance could have been administered using a needle.

Tim Loughton, acting chair of the Home Affairs Committee, said spiking was a “pernicious act” but the frequency of it occurring was “poorly understood”.

The inquiry is looking to hear directly from victims to understand the support available after reporting being spiked.

Loughton said: “We want to understand what more can be done to stamp this out, but also how victims can be better supported in reporting these incidents and dealing with the long-term consequences on them.

“We also want to see how police can work with partners in the entertainment sector and other areas to identify more effectively when such incidents take place.”

The move was welcomed by the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA), which has been calling for the government to take action on the issue.

Michael Kill, chief executive of the NTIA, said: “We are keen to support the inquiry as an industry, and hope that this can be completed quickly so that we can collectively tackle these abhorrent crimes within society.”

Devon and Cornwall Police have piloted a scheme in which drink testing kits were made available in bars across the region, which the NTIA said should be examined to see if lessons could be learned.

Last month MPs debated whether there should be a legal requirement for clubs to search guests on entry, following an online petition that gained more than 170,000 signatures.

Members of the public can take part in an online survey on the issue until 5 January. The committee is also welcoming written submissions until 19 January. For more information click here.

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