Letter: MP tipplers

Sir: In response to the drinks industry ("Pubs in plea for modern licence system", 26 August), Alcohol Concern believes it is essential to "carry out pilot studies to evaluate the likely effect [of longer drinking hours] on alcohol-related crime, disorder and nuisance".

Since 1916, Parliament itself has been the only institution exempted from drinking restrictions. Would a pilot study in Parliament of alcohol- related crime, disorder and nuisance indicate that drinking hours and restrictions should be extended or reduced?

MICHAEL BRYANT

Honfleur, France