Anand: crackdown on wild drinking :: Mmegi Online

You would expect me - the chief executive of a pub retailer and brewer that owns pubs up and down the country - to champion the glorious role that alcohol has had in Britain's cultural life and social history.

But it saddens me that there's more to alcohol than enjoying a pint of Old Speckled Hen outside a country pub.I am deeply concerned by the profound, negative impact that alcohol misuse is having on society. Most people drink alcohol in moderation, but irresponsible drinking is contributing to rising levels of antisocial behaviour and alcohol-related health issues, such as liver disease - one of the only significant diseases to have increased in incidence in the past 20 years in the UK.

I also fear that if no attempt is made to solve this growing culture of irresponsible drinking, then the alcohol industry is likely to face punitive sanctions.

Already have an active account? Log in here.

Or Sign up and get unlimited access to premium articles.