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Sue Gray report: is it ever appropriate to consume alcohol at work?

Steve Bridger

Those of us who are UK based can't help but have noticed that the initial findings from Sue Gray's inquiry into lockdown socialising in No.10 and other Govt buildings have finally been published.

The BBC report some highlights here:

Sue Gray party report: What are the findings?

Sue Gray points to "failures of leadership and judgement" and excessive drinking at work against the backdrop of the pandemic.

She goes on to suggest that the "excessive consumption of alcohol is not appropriate in a professional workplace at any time" and that every government department should have a "clear and robust policy in place covering the consumption of alcohol"

I guess the key word here is "excessive". 

What do you think?

Parents
  • I think you're right that it's the word 'excessive' but also 'culture': it's not a one off ill advised Christmas party that went awry but this was an environment that was nurtured and celebrated. I also understand in the report that there were people who felt uncomfortable speaking out against it too; the unpleasant side of a toxic culture.

    I don't believe in being overly censorious - what works in one workplace is clearly glaringly inappropriate in another but it needs to be managed carefully. I work in a shared office space where we have beer and prosecco taps and stopping for a 4.30pm Friday drink with the team is great for us. It's probably because there is a clear understanding that that is solely when it is appropriate and if there were abuses of this it would be dealt with quickly.
  • in reply to Alys Martin
    In 1970 the Royal Navy did away with the centuries old tradition of issuing a rum ration to all sailors at lunch time. This was just when the RN was becoming increasingly reliant on technology, guided weapons and other weapons. The 1st Sea Lord who instigated the ban rightly stated; "It was a tradition no longer compatible with the demands of the modern navy."

    I'm sure most people don't want people in charge of sophisticated and dangerous weapons, whilst under the influence of alcohol.

    I certainly don't want the occupants of Whitehall to be making potentially life changing decisions which effect me whilst under the influence of drink either. Its against the law to drive a car whilst under the influence - why should it be OK to run the country after you've had a few?
  • in reply to David Perry
    Oh, it's absolutely not and that's partly my point - there are clearly some workplaces where this is even more inappropriate than others. If you're running a wine import business, I can understand alcohol being part of the day. If you're making decisions that affect millions of people, then I can't. Even with the people who work in industries which do involve alcohol, I certainly wouldn't expect people to be drinking irresponsibly. As mentioned above, it's all about context.
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  • in reply to David Perry
    Oh, it's absolutely not and that's partly my point - there are clearly some workplaces where this is even more inappropriate than others. If you're running a wine import business, I can understand alcohol being part of the day. If you're making decisions that affect millions of people, then I can't. Even with the people who work in industries which do involve alcohol, I certainly wouldn't expect people to be drinking irresponsibly. As mentioned above, it's all about context.
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