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The government today announced new measures designed to curb binge drinking and irresponsible drink-related behaviour.

In a review of the 24-hour licensing law, the government looked particularly at the reported problem of unruly behaviour occurring later in the night, predominantly between the hours of three and six AM.

Originally designed to limit people drinking too much too quickly, many critics have argued that the laws that allow pubs and bars to stay open all night have had a detrimental effect.

Chairman of the Police Federation Jan Berry told the BBC that the police have witnessed an increase in the number of officers that have been assaulted.

And Tim Martin, chairman of the Wetherspoon pub chain, told BBC2's Newsnight that the legislation had failed to control binge-drinking, saying: "People need to re-educated about their drinking habits."

New measures announced by the government include sanctions on those who sell alcohol to underage drinkers, as well as an extension of acceptable behaviour contracts to include actions relate to alcohol abuse.

The 24-hour drinking law came into force in November 2005 and since then less than four per cent of premises have applied for the round-the-clock licence.

Article published on 05/03/2008 by DryOutNow.com

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