By Dave Lord

AFTER A week of confusion and controversy, the chairman of Perth and Kinross Council’s licensing board has “clarified” his attitude toward ‘vertical drinking’ by insisting he is not against bars where people stand up to drink—just bars where a “large number” of people stand up.

Councillor Jack Coburn said plans to introduce minimum seating requirements would help to stamp out “flashpoints” that could result in anti-social behaviour.

In a letter to The Courier, he stated, “This proposal certainly does not apply to standing at the bar having a pint.

“We have absolutely no intention of banning people from standing at the bar in pubs to have a drink.

“What we are in fact proposing to do is pay particular attention to applications for a premises licence where large numbers of people would be standing up drinking.

“This kind of situation has the potential to cause flashpoints that could result in anti-social behaviour,” Mr Coburn continued.

“It is also more difficult for the licensee to remain in control.”

Mr Coburn said he also wished to “clear up” the matter of having a drink with a meal at a pavement cafe.

In a draft statement, licensing board members insisted people would be able to sit outside with alcohol only if the beverage was accompanied by a meal, not including sandwiches.

This had led to anger in some quarters, with some residents insisting the sandwich ban represented an unwarranted infringement on their rights as consumers.

Others were unclear as to exactly what constituted a meal.

When The Courier contacted the licensing board, we were told a meal would be that which was eaten at a table with a knife and fork.

However, Mr Coburn has now outlined some slightly different criteria—and insisted the move would only formalise an “undertaking” that had been in effect for several years.

“At the moment a meal is considered to be cooked food on a plate or a salad,” he stated.

“A sandwich, snacks or crisps are not considered to be a table meal.

“This ensures that Perth’s vibrant ‘cafe quarter’ remains an area where people go to eat or have a hot drink rather than only to drink alcohol.”

Mr Coburn was sure the rules regarding both vertical and outdoor drinking would be a big success.

“Our overall aim is to ensure that Perth and Kinross’s town centres are pleasant, safe and vibrant places to be for residents and visitors,” he said.

The chairman of the licensing board concluded by accusing The Courier of “negative and cynical” coverage.

He clearly hopes his helpful clarifications will draw a line under the issue.