Open and shut

The British disease I do not think so. It is the British attitude to drinking that causes difficulties. We all know sections of the population regularly drink themselves into oblivion then often indulge in violent and other antisocial behaviour. Researchers should be asking why this seems to be a uniquely be asking why this seems to be a uniquely British trait. Other European countries have had long opening hours for decades without these sort of problems - unless, of course, the British are on holiday there. Relaxing the licensing laws could actually help - people may see the benefits of drinking alcohol in a more relaxed environment and take things slowly.