WYRE Forest MP, Dr Richard Taylor, fears new licensing laws extending opening hours for pubs and clubs will make the problem of binge drinking worse.

He also expressed worries about the possible impact the legislative change, which came into force today, would place on the district's emergency services.

Dr Taylor said: "We have all seen the problems that people who work for the emergency services face from drunks.

"There is a very fine line between someone who is drunk, being obnoxious or potentially violent and being unconscious."

The sweeping changes allowed pubs and clubs to apply for the chance to open round the clock but no premises in Wyre Forest will open for 24 hours.

Brian Kent, Wyre Forest District Council's principal licensing officer, said 85 per cent of the 350 premises had applied for "variations" on past licenses but confirmed the latest any would open until was 3am.

He added: "We had a statutory duty to work with the public and the responsible authorities. If there was any concern with a decision it could go to a public hearing.

"I think we had 25 of those and three went to the next stage, which was an appeal to magistrates."

Dr Taylor also expressed concern about the short and long-term implications, including potential health problems, arising from people being able to drink longer and rejected the Government's view that it would tackle the problem of anti-social behaviour.

He explained: "If a pub is open to the small hours then there is more time for people to consume alcohol.

"It will just prolong the time people will drink for. I do not think the Government's argument holds up."

Home secretary, Charles Clarke, last week announced a crackdown on alcohol-fuelled problems over the festive period, including issuing fixed penalty notices for drink-related disorder and a promise to target those who sold alcohol to under-18s.

Kidderminster police licensing officer, PC Rich Drewett, said the force would be "closely monitoring" the situation in the run-up to Christmas.

He added: "We urge people to take responsibility for their own actions, look out for their friends and drink sensibly."