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Michael Howard today pledged that a Conservative government would introduce strict new measures to tackle binge drinking, writes Clare Jerrom.

The Tory leader unveiled a five point action plan to turn the tide against binge drinking in a bid to tackle alcohol-related antisocial behaviour.

Howard said: “Our five point plan, which I am announcing today, will confront the binge drinking culture. A Conservative government won’t turn a blind eye when they bend or break the rules.”

He went on to launch a scathing attack on “drunken yobs”, saying he wanted them to be given “a dose of the fear they’ve been dishing out to the rest of us”.

The Tory five point plan includes:-

• Giving councils powers to restrict the issue of late night licences granted to drinking establishments without them having to worry that their decisions will be over turned by the courts

• Putting a stop to irresponsible drink promotions

• Giving councils strong new powers to tackle late night drinking hotspots by blocking licence extensions to premises where there is a danger of late night binge drinking getting out of hand

• Recruiting 5,000 more police officers a year

• Giving local communities a greater say in licensing decisions

Howard launched the proposals today before visiting Peterborough and Nottingham for election visits.