A North Yorkshire MP is spearheading a national campaign to reform the country's licensing laws, which were originally designed more than 80 years ago to restrict drinking by munitions workers in the First World War.

Selby MP John Grogan believes towns and cities in North and East Yorkshire could be quieter, safer and more prosperous if pubs and clubs are allowed to open longer.

He led a meeting of MPs, magistrates, police and brewing industry representatives to debate the need for change at the House of Commons yesterday.

He said: "A more relaxed licensing regime whereby the pubs did not close at the same time would mean fewer problems with public order, particularly in places such such as Selby and York.

"It would mean fewer people pouring out of pubs on to the streets at the same time, going for taxis and fast food.

"In York's case it would help the tourist industry - at the moment tourists do not understand the strange opening hours."

The event was addressed on a video link by Allan Charlesworth, Deputy Chief Constable of West Yorkshire and a leading expert on licensing laws, who told the group there was a growing consensus on changing licensing laws.

Mr Grogan added: "We agreed to form an all-party group of MPs on the subject and to form a campaign outside Parliament which can carry out research.

"Realistically, you are looking at there being no legislation before the end of this Parliament, or maybe a White Paper this Parliament."

Last month the Government announced a review of the country's licensing laws.

Speaking at the British Institute of Innkeeping, minister George Howarth said: "Our first task is to examine the current system and come up with practical proposals for change.''

See COMMENT Calling time on this archaic law

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