Drinking And The Law

The Act which came into force on 24th November 2005 transferred the licensing responsibility from Justices to local Authorities, which are 'democratically accountable'.

Pubs can apply to open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provided there are no objections from residents or local businesses, the license will be granted. In reality few have applied and even fewer have been granted, only 0.5 of all licenses.

This does not mean that a pub with a 24 hour license has to open 24 hours, it just has the flexibility to do so. So far fears of 24/7 drinking have not materialised and most pubs in London have either not changed their opening hours, or have decided to close an hour or so later on Fridays and Saturday only.

Drunkenness

It is illegal to buy alcohol for someone who is drunk, or for a pub to sell alcohol to them. Being drunk or drunk and disorderly in a public place is an offence.

Drink Driving

It is well known that in Britain it is illegal to drive whilst having more than 80mgs of alcohol per 100ml of blood. That's equivalent to 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 ml of breath or 107mgs of alcohol per 100 ml of urine.

Smoking

It is illegal to smoke in pubs. A law came into effect in July 2007 banning smoking in all enclosed public places, including pubs clubs, bars and restaurants.