Cambridgeshire: PCC Supports Drunk Tanks

18 September 2013, 15:42 | Updated: 18 September 2013, 15:46

The Cambridgeshire Police and Crime Commissioner is supporting calls for so-called 'drunk tanks' for binge drinkers.

Sir Graham Bright [pictured] says he backs an idea by the Chief Constable of Northamptonshire Police, to lock-up drinkers and privately-run cells and charge them for staying there.

The cells are commonly known as 'drunk-tanks' and would be used by drinkers to recover from the effects of alcohol.

Senior Police Officers say it would help tackle the rising levels of alcohol-fuelled disorder.

Sir Graham said: "I welcome the Chief Constable's idea and want to come out and support it in principle. 

If someone chooses to go out and get drunk and block up our police stations and NHS services then they should pay for it. 

The rest of the community shouldn't have to pick up the tab. 

Clearly there are instances where alcohol abuse is part of a wider pattern of addiction and mental health issues; we must take care to ensure those people receive appropriate treatment. 

However, binge drinking linked to the night time economy results in many policing and community safety issues. 

It is the scourge of our society and has a huge impact on our communities and emergency services. 

I welcome any initiative that can help tackle this."