An investigation has been launched into one of London’s most famous strip clubs after an undercover sting allegedly exposed “rife sexual contact” between topless dancers and punters.
Camden council is looking into claims against Spearmint Rhino by the Not Buying It campaign group which sent in two former police detectives to gather video evidence in February. If the allegations are true, the venue in Tottenham Court Road would be in breach of its licence.
The two investigators claim they were straddled by dancers who touched themselves intimately. One of the men said he was told he could touch dancers sexually if they paid an extra £20. Such behaviour is against “no touching” licensing rules for lap-dancing venues.
According to Spearmint Rhino’s code of conduct, dancers are not allowed to intentionally touch customers during performances or solicit payment for gratuities or sexual favours.
One investigator claimed a doorman stated there was to be “no touching of the girls” and no filming. But at the bar, he says he was approached by a dancer who told him prices ranged from £20 to £600. He was led to a booth with two dancers, who he alleges touched him and themselves sexually during their performance.
The second man claims a dancer said “I can touch you” after removing her dress and touched him intimately before offering him her phone number.
"Women who have left the industry have told us what’s really happening"
Spearmint Rhino recently had its licence renewed amid objections by Not Buying It and the Women’s Equality Party. Not Buying It’s Dr Sasha Rakoff said: “Numerous women who have left the strip industry have told us for years what is really happening in these clubs.” The group called for a zero-clubs policy in the council’s approach to sexual entertainment venues. The council said it was investigating and had contacted the club to outline “concerns about the seriousness of the allegations” and actions that must be taken. It is set to start a consultation on its licensing policy for such venues.
Spearmint Rhino was repeatedly approached for comment but did not respond.
