The Hindu : International : Beating drunkenness in Britain

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Tuesday, Feb 08, 2005

International

International

Beating drunkenness in Britain

LONDON, FEB. 7. Pubs, clubs and other drinking venues in England and the Wales can apply to stay open 24 hours a day under new laws that came into effect from Monday.

Currently, many British drinkers imbibe as much as they can as quickly as they can, before pubs shut at 11 p.m. Then heavy drinkers all stumble into the streets at the same time, often leading to fights and other drunken misbehaviour. The Government says the new laws will help curb the problem because people will drink in a more relaxed manner. Although applications for the extended licences start from Monday, the new hours will not come into effect in England and the Wales until November. Scotland is conducting its own review of licensing laws.

Many have criticised the new regulations, saying that 24-hour drinking will add to Britain's culture of boozy behaviour. But the Culture Secretary, Tessa Jowell, defended the plans, saying few pubs are expected to open around the clock. Although licensed premises can apply to stay open any time during the period, local authorities can limit it if nearby residents or the police raise objections. — AP

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