'FANCY A SWIFT HALF?' NOT IN LONDON - TEATHER

3.15.35pm UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 25th Jul 2005

Sarah Teather MP

Fewer than one in three of London's licensed premises have re-applied for a license to serve alcohol. They have less than two weeks to submit applications before the 6th August deadline. Licensees face up to six months in jail or a fine of up to £20,000 if they do not have a license after 24th November.

London has a take up of only 29% compared to 42% for the rest of the country.

Liberal Democrat MP and Spokesperson for London Sarah Teather said:

"The tragedy is that properly managed, more flexible licensing hours could help reduce the problems caused by binge drinking and alcohol-related violence. But the Government's approach has been mismanaged from start to finish.

"Ministers should urgently consider delaying the implementation of these plans to allow police and Local Authorities more time to prepare."

"Does the Government really want to be responsible for hundred of pubs, clubs and restaurants having to close because they do not have a licence?"