Pub landlord may be forced to hire ‘banter bouncers’ to police drunken conversations under a bizarre new free speech law.
The new law has been introduced in a bid to protect workers from being subjected to harassment and abuse.
It would give workers the right to sue punters if their comments or jokes are deemed offensive.
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The update from the Equalities Act has will place extra rules and regulations on bosses to put a stop to any abusive language.
But, according to The Sun, critics believe this move will leave punters unable to shout at the telly or crack a joke without being at risk of getting sued by staff.
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Critics want explicit exemptions to be introduced to the Act so that jokes and sporting chat won’t leave customers vulnerable.
The publication also claimed that pub bosses fear that the extra restrictions will cost them dearly, at a time they’re already struggling to make ends meet.
Tory MP Danny Kruger asked: “Will pubs be expected to put up signs saying, ‘No banter allowed’ in order to take reasonable steps to prevent harassment?
“A censorious spirit has entered the soul of organisations that hold power and responsibility in our country.”
(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
The Equalities and Human Rights Commission will come forward with new clarity for employers on what it means and what they have to do.
Hugh Osmond, head of Punch Taverns, said: “How could we stop a group of people coming into a pub and having an offensive chat in the corner?
“You may even need extra people to try and police it. You wouldn’t find rules this strict in China or Russia.”
The Government says the law will not stop free speech but “will ensure employers are legally liable if they fail to protect their employees”.
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Ministers say that the laws would mean more anti-harassment training, and stepping in to deal with complaints – but deny it would stifle pub chat.
A Government spokesperson said: “Freedom of speech is a vital pillar of our society, and with this amendment, we will ensure no one is silenced for simply expressing their legitimately held opinions.
“Those that seek to harass people they work with will not be tolerated, and this legislation will ensure that employers are legally liable if they fail to protect their employees and ensure they feel safe at work.”
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