A Tory councillor for this area told the Wimbledon Guardian that Wimbledon has been turned into “wild west” after 9pm by licensing laws. He feels all pubs should close at 11pm Sunday-Thursday and midnight Fri-Sat, and that “pubs nearest homes, such as those on Hartfield Road should have earlier closing times”.

In 2006, Tory councillors claimed “the decent majority” avoid Wimbledon town centre after 7pm – for the same reason.

What do you think?

The Liberal Democrats don’t believe it’s the job of politicians to moralise. We believe that it’s up to people to choose how they spend their money and free time. But as liberals, we also believe that when somebody behaves in a way that causes harm to others, they should be made to pay the price.  We want to target the people causing drunken crime and disorder – not the responsible majority.

Local Councils and police have a wide variety of powers already, and we support spreading best practice amongst local authorities to use these powers effectively – not scaremongering.  Furthermore, we support the Coalition Government’s proposals that were in the Lib Dem manifesto to:

• make it easier for communities to have their say on local licensing by allowing local authorities to consider the views of the wider community, not just those living close to premises;
• take tough action against underage drinking by doubling the fine to £20,000 for those found persistently selling alcohol to children,  and bringing in automatic licence reviews for these problem premises – which can see licences revoked;
• ensure policing and health concerns are fully considered when assessing licence applications;
• increase licence fees so that local councils can cover costs linked to enforcement  leaving premises to pay rather than the local taxpayer.

Liberal Democrat policy briefing: A Liberal approach to alcohol and licensing.

Liberal Democrat policy briefing: Giving pubs back to communities.