From Paul Rowe-Jones
As the World Health Organization develops its strategy to combat alcohol abuse (19 April, p 6), those involved should consider whether instead of heavy taxation it might be preferable to implement a licensing system, similar to driving licences.
“Drinking licences” could be issued at age 16 on completion of a short course describing the dangers of heavy alcohol consumption. They could include a provisional period of an appropriate length, limiting the licence holder to beverages below a certain alcohol content. This would encourage young drinkers off the streets and into the comparatively secure environment of a pub.
Anyone who committed a crime when drunk would have their licence revoked or restricted, limiting or removing their ability to buy alcohol. This would target aggressive drunks while not penalising those who can retain control of their impulses. Unlike taxation, drinking licences could change drinking culture, not just limit alcohol abuse to those who can afford it.
The only drawback I can see is the initial cost of implementing licences – though this would be offset by the reduced strain on emergency wards and the police.
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Cottingham, East Yorkshire, UK
