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Islington Tribune - by ROISIN GADELRAB
Published: 4 July 2008

Shillibeers bar, where Ben spent his final night

Police want probe into pub’s licence

ISLINGTON Police have called for a review into the licence of Shillibeers pub, where 16-year-old Ben Kinsella spent his final night out with friends.
The borough’s most senior officer said last night (Thursday) that there was evidence that underage drinkers had been in the bar in Carpenters Mews off North Road.
Chief Superintendent Bob Carr said: “It would appear from the intelligence we have received that people under the age of 18 were drinking at the premises and we’re concerned about anywhere that allows under-18s to drink and the consequences which don’t usually lead to murder can result in fights.”
The bar, which is licensed to serve alcohol until 2am at weekends, does allow under-18s inside but those aged 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
The council has reacted by writing to every pub, club and bar in the borough, warning them not to sell alcohol to under-18s.
Islington Council deputy leader Councillor Terry Stacy said: “Police have asked for a review of the Shillibeers licence and we’re working with them on this. We’ve also written a joint letter with police to pubs, clubs and bars warning them not to sell alcohol to under-18s, or risk being shut down or other serious penalties.”
A spokeswoman for Islington Police said: “Prior to the murder of Ben Kinsella, Islington Police has not encountered any significant problems relating to violence or underage drinking at Shillibeers. In light of this recent incident, we have initiated a licence review.”
Labour Cllr Paul Smith said: “As a local councillor, I am deeply worried that underage drinkers were clearly served in Shillibeers at the time of this terrible crime. I now want Islington Council to carry out a review of the bar’s licence as a matter of urgency and I intend to give the fullest co-operation to the borough’s licensing team and the police to make that happen.”
Shillibeers declined to respond to the Tribune’s request for an interview.

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