§ 93. Mr. DevlinTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps his Department is taking to deter foolish and excessive drinking; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenWe have strengthened the powers of licensing justices. Since 22 August, they have had discretion to grant or refuse late-night drinks extensions; from 1 March 1989 they will be in a position to order, if it is justified, the revocation of current licences for licensed premises at any licensing session. We have also strengthened the law on sales to under-age drinkers. We have prepared crime prevention advice and approved the experimental byelaw in Coventry banning the consumption of alcohol in designated streets and other public places. Similar byelaws will be introduced in six other towns. The ministerial group on alcohol misuse is taking forward further work on other aspects of alcohol misuse.