24-hour drinking" myth dispelled

The myth over "24-hour drinking", supposedly created by the new licensing laws, has been further dispelled by new government figures.

The first official figures released on licensing since the new Act reveal that less than three per cent of all premises in England and Wales have 24-hour licences, while two thirds of these are hotels.

Pubs, bars and nightclubs account for just nine per cent (460) of the 5,100 premises in England and Wales allowed to sell around-the-clock.

Eighteen per cent of 24-hour licences belong to supermarkets, the figures showed.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport statistics also showed the police are not being shy in using new powers under the regime.

During the 12 months to March this year, there were 670 licence reviews, with 90 licences revoked, 91 suspended for up to three months, 110 made to change their opening hours and 390 premises with conditions placed on their licence.

Licensing Minister Gerry Sutcliffe said: "These are the first official licensing figures since the Act came into force two years ago and I'm pleased they put to bed the theory that this law is all about 24-hour drinking. It isn't.

"Less than three per cent of premises are licensed to sell alcohol round-the-clock and two thirds of those are hotels, which have always been able to serve their guests for 24 hours a day.

"Only around one per cent of premises have 24 hour licences to sell alcohol to the public - and many only open longer hours on special occasions.

"But it's not about how many premises there are - it's about how responsible they are.

"The new laws give local people and police the power to ask for a review of a licence any time a problem occurs.

"That puts the onus back on the landlord - behave or risk closing early or even having your licence revoked."