I WAS bemused by the Lib Dems proposed public consultation about the change to licensing law (March 31).

So far they seem to pay little or no attention to the wishes of electorate.

In particular, the desire to hear the views of teetotallers on pub opening hours together with the declaration that pubs in "residential" areas will not be granted licence extensions, effectively ruling out every well-run local pub within the city.

Why bother with consultation when the outcomes are already decided?

Once again York will be left in the last century.

The so-called trendy bars selling cut-price high alcohol drinks to inexperienced drinkers already have licence extensions.

Who do they think use local pubs in residential areas?

Yes, local residents, of course.

The solution is to completely abolish the deadlines of closing time, with the exception of say between 3am to 8am, and let the pubs themselves decide when to open and close.

Like water, this will find its own level with few if any establishments opening for the duration.

Removal of the licence always remains an option for businesses which cause continuous problems.

How will this deal with the anti-social behaviour which takes place in the afternoons and early evenings during York races meetings?

M Skinner,

Millfield Road,

York.

Updated: 09:35 Monday, April 12, 2004