GOVERNMENT proposals to crack down on disorderly behaviour with fixed penalty notices of up to £200 have been welcomed by local police inspector Nick Rogers.
He said that the on-the-spot fine system, mentioned in the Queen's Speech last week as part of a new Criminal Justice and Police Bill, would speed up justice and reduce the burden of paperwork on officers. It would certainly be applied in the West Devon area if it succeeded in reaching the statute book, he said.
'I welcome any additions to police powers that will enable officers to deal more effectively with disorder.'
But he was less enthusiastic about the proposed introduction of curfews and doubted whether that measure would be adopted in this area.
He stressed that he was speaking in a personal capacity, but his views reflect those of the Association of Chief Police Officers. It welcomed the idea of fixed penalty notices, but expressed concern about the introduction of curfews.
The government intends to impose dusk-to-dawn curfews on youths of 10-16 who cause trouble.
Under the proposed legislation, police would be able to hand out fines for offences such as drunkenness, abusive or threatening behaviour and drinking in a prohibited place. They could also immediately close down pubs, clubs or restaurants where there was a disturbance.