Burnham: Review reveals mixed picture

The first review of 24-hour drinking has revealed a "mixed picture," the culture secretary Andy Burnham has admitted.

Although benefits were found, these have not been shared evenly across the country and there has been a rise in alcohol-fuelled violent behaviour in the early hours of the morning.

In a written statement, Mr Burnham said many of the concerns voiced before the Act's introduction had not materialised, with crime and alcohol consumption down.

But alcohol-fuelled disorder is more common between 03:00 and 06:00, with police complaining this is a major drain on police resources.

Mr Burnham said: "It is also clear that the overall reduction in alcohol-related disorder we wanted to see across the country has not materialised consistently in all areas."

He maintained drinkers are enjoying the freedoms afforded by the act and urged police and councils to use its powers to tackle alcohol-related problems.

Mr Burnham called for a "rebalance action towards enforcement and crack down on irresponsible behaviour".

The review concluded there was "no clear picture" whether demand has risen for A&E services. Some hospitals report a rise in alcohol-related admissions, while others report a fall.

The review also shows only 5,100 premises have true 24-hour licences, mainly hotels, stores and supermarkets. Just 470 bars and nightclubs can offer around the clock drinking.