New law slammed (From Stroud News and Journal)

New law slammed

A NAILSWORTH GP has blasted new drinking laws he says will fuel binge boozing and cause health problems for more revellers.

The laws are due to swing into operation next Thursday and many pubs across the Stroud district are preparing to open later.

Dr Nigel Booker, who has been a GP at Prices Mill Surgery in Nailsworth for 14 years, said: "They will encourage more drinking and are a bad idea. "Drinking too much is obviously bad for your health, I am not a fan of extending drinking hours.

"People don't know how much alcohol effects them. A lot of it is genetic, some people can drink large amounts and it doesn't affect them like it does others. After all, alcohol is a poison that the body has to get rid of."

The new licensing laws went through Parliament in 2003. Ministers believe extending hours will end the traditional rush for last orders and tackle binge drinking.

However, the Conservatives have since claimed that new evidence gathered from police, doctors, judges and the general public has highlighted holes in the plan.

The Greyhound in Gloucester Road, Stroud has applied for a license to sell alcohol until 3am everyday. "We certainly won't be staying open until 3am every day as there is just no call for it, but will be opening later on the weekend," said landlord Hector Cobbe.

"The idea is that it gives people more choice. Of course some people will push the boundaries and do everything to excess but for the general population it should be more enjoyable."