Large increase in Sussex of under 18's prosecuted for being drunk and disorderly

1.48.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 25th Aug 2005

New figures uncovered by the Liberal Democrats reveal the shocking extent of under age drunken anti-social behaviour across England.

The number of under-18 year olds prosecuted for being drunk and disorderly in England and Wales rose to 31,343 in 2003 (the most recent year for which figures are available). This was a rise of 2% in that year.

Since Labour came to power some areas have seen a massive rise in the numbers of youths arrested for drunk and disorderly behaviour. Surrey has seen massive 111% rise and neighbouring Kent a 98% jump. Northumbria tops the table for total prosecutions with 3,944 in 2003.

The areas with the biggest percentage increases between 1997-2003 are:

Surrey 111%

Norfolk 69%

Kent 98%

Cambridgeshire 55%

Dorset 91%

Sussex 53%

London 72%

Hertfordshire 52%

Commenting on the findings Lynne Featherstone MP, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson on Police, Crime and Disorder, said:

"These figures confirm that drunk and disorderly behaviour amongst under-18's is still a significant problem.

"Many of our town centres are becoming no-go zones on Friday and Saturday nights. While the majority of young people behave responsibly the fact that over 31,000 under 18's were prosecuted for being drunk and disorderly will be a major worry for parents everywhere.

Lib Dem City Council Group Leader, Councillor Paul Elgood added:

"Anyone can see the problems being caused by the issues simply by going out onto West Street on a Friday or Saturday night. Binge drinking can cause significant health problems for young people and it is now clear it is a major social problem in our communities. The Government must be doing much more early preventative work to help young people cope with these problems. "