Pubs have seen an increase in licence reviews and a growing threat of revocations, according to new figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS).
The new data showed that there were 1,125 licence reviews in the year to March 2009, up from 1,000 the previous year.
The reviews resulted in 150 licences being revoked, 170 suspended and 190 cases in which operating hours were modified.
The report found a 19% rise in 24-hour licences at bars, pubs and clubs during the year, up to 900 venues from 700 in 2008.
There was a 12% increase in the number of licences for late night refreshment, up from 68,600 to 77,100 venues, and a 4% rise in licences that allowed recorded music.
Licensing Minister Gerry Sutcliffe said that he was encouraged that more licensees were widening their customer appeal by putting on live music, serving hot food late at night or making use of flexible licensing hours, although he was also pleased to see the tough enforcement powers that existed.
