LETS GET TOUGH ON BINGE DRINKING

10.20.00am GMT Sun 16th Nov 2008

A new plan to tackle binge drinking has been launched by the Lib Dem Leader Nick Clegg MP.

The plans include proposals to stop irresponsible drink promotions, take licences away from those found guilty of selling alcohol to children and fines for disruptive drunks in hospital A&E departments.

Ron Beadle, Liberal Democrat Parliamentary spokesman for Newcastle North, said: "We cannot afford to ignore the impact that this problem is having on many people's lives.

"Our proposals will increase funding for treatment of people with a drink problem, force retailers to sell alcohol responsibly, and ensure that those people who cannot handle alcohol responsibly are held to account."

The proposals, outlined in Tackling Booze Britain, include:

:: Stop irresponsible drink promotions by introducing a minimum price for alcohol

:: Put an end to the sale of alcohol to children by imposing a 'one strike and you're out' policy

:: Protect Accident & Emergency staff by fining disruptive drunks in hospital A&E departments.