Late licensing not to blame for binge-drinking

Later licensing hours have not led to an increase in binge-drinking or alcohol-related crime, according to academics.

In a report which flies in the face of those who predicted problems would escalate following the introduction of the Act, licensing chiefs across England have said the effects of the Act have been neutral.

Health and social sciences students from Middlesex University have revealed the results of a survey analysing the impact of the Licensing Act that came into force in 2005.

They surveyed licensing chiefs from every local authority in England about the Act. A total of 225 out of 356 (63 per cent) responded and indicated the new measures have not led to a rise in alcohol-related problems.

Dr John Foster, who led the team, said: "We have found that the much predicted mayhem resulting from the changes has not resulted.

"The perception of those surveyed was that levels of alcohol related violence and under-age drinking were broadly unchanged."

Martin Rawlings, British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA), pub & leisure director, said: "Quite simply this directly contradicts the rampant media speculation over the issues surrounding the Licensing Act.

"It confirms that the industry's understanding of its business and it customers was head and shoulders above that of the media."

He added: "The report indicates that binge drinking, alcohol related crime and especially violent crime is perceived to be falling - we believe that actual figures, rather than perception would show this to be at a greater rate than indicated in this report but nevertheless this is a positive indication for the industry."

But Frank Soodeen from health group Alcohol Concern said: "The review confirms national figures which suggest that overall licensing reform has not had the impact that was expected.

"However, we remain concerned by the lack of public health objectives within the Act. Although anti-social behaviour is a real cause for action, we must not lose sight of the growing burden placed on the health services as a result of cheap, readily available alcohol throughout the country."

The report, which was commissioned by the Alcohol Education and Research Council, also found that new applications to open pubs are more common in disadvantaged areas and can lead to economic growth.