As the calls for the Government to think again about relaxing licensing laws gather momentum new figures uncovered by Lynne Featherstone MP, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson on Police, Crime and Disorder, reveal an alarming increase in alcohol related deaths.

Over the last five years the number of alcohol related deaths has increased by a massive 18.4% nationally. Some regions have seen an even more significant increase with Yorkshire and Humber seeing a shocking 46.5% increase.

The regions with the biggest increase in alcohol related deaths are:

1. Yorks and Humber 46.5%

2. North East 28.4%

3. West Midlands 24.2%

4. North West 24.1%

5. Wales 21.4% Commenting on the figures Lynne Featherstone said:

“These figures are deeply worrying. The Government must address the underlying reasons why people are drinking themselves – literally to death.

“I am worried that the proposed change to licensing laws will add to this startling increase in drink related deaths. The Government should pause for more thought before it brings in the changes to the licensing laws in November.”