SIMON KIRBY MP PRESSES CO-OP ON 6AM DRINK SALES RUMOURS
Simon Kirby, MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven, has written to the Co-Op’s Head Office, asking if Co-Op stores in the Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven areas will be applying for licences to sell alcoholic beverages from 6am in the morning. Simon’s contact with the Co-Op follows reports that some stores are seeking a licence.
Simon said: ‘It is now acknowledged that easy access to alcohol has added to the stresses that have been placed on our health services and long-term excessive drinking can destroy lives and families. Services provided in Brighton and Hove spends millions of pounds a year tackling the problems of binge drinking and issues related to alcohol abuse.
I am concerned at what the impact on individuals and local communities will be if the Co-Op stores in Kemptown, Rottngdean, Saltdean and Peacehaven were to adopt a policy of opening at 6am to sell alcohol.
I have written to the Co-Op about this matter and asked for information about the supermarket chain’s plans. I shall report back to constituents as soon as I have any news.’
