| Call for higher alcohol taxes |
Friday July 20, 200
Tax rises on alcohol should be imposed in order to reduce the damage caused to health, Chief Medical Officer Sir Liam Donaldson suggested.
Sir Liam, who is the senior medical adviser to the Government, said he would "strongly commend" the use of tax as a deterrent to excessive drinking, as has been the case with tobacco.
Speaking in the wake of reports suggesting that violent offences and attendances at hospital accident and emergency units have risen following the introduction of round-the-clock drinking, Sir Liam also said he would welcome a review of 24-hour licensing.
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