Binge drinkers as young as 11

Britain's binge drinking culture has led to an alarming rise in the numbers of young people needing hospital treatment.

New government figures show that the number of 11- to 15-year-olds in London being treated for alcohol-related problems has jumped by 42 per cent in the past two years.

Opposition MPs described the figures as "shocking". Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Teather said they raised fresh questions about Labour's decision to allow 24-hour drinking in the capital's pubs.

According to the Department of Health data, 309 children were admitted to London hospitals in 2001-02 because of alcohol related problems. This had leapt to 438 cases in 2003-04 - a 42 per cent increase.

Many of the underage drinkers are being taken to accident and emergency after being involved in fights. Others need treatment for alcohol poisoning and liver disease.

The figures coincide with research showing that one in five children aged between 11 and 15 regularly drink alcohol, with an average weekly intake of around 11 units. "These figures are shocking. If the Government can't enforce the current rules to stop children drinking themselves into hospital, how will they cope with 24-hour drinking?" said Ms Teather, MP for Brent East.

She said: "We have generations of children growing up thinking that drinking to excess is normal. Is it any wonder that they continue to do so once they are legally able to buy drink?

"Too many Londoners are afraid to walk through open spaces because of gangs of youths drinking themselves senseless. The culture of the binge drinking amongst young people must stop.

"Binge drinking has major implications for children's health, as well as often leading to anti-social behaviour. More action is required from the police and local authorities to enforce the rules on selling alcohol to children. Children also need to be taught in the classroom about the harmful health effects of alcohol."

Alcohol experts warned the problem could get worse as bars and clubs taken advantage of the Licensing Act to stay open up to 24 hours.

A spokeswoman for Alcohol Concern said: "If more people are drinking, and drinking at problematic levels, they are vulnerable."