THERE are just four days to go before pubs and clubs can apply for licences to sell alcohol around the clock.

From February 7, venues can begin applying for 24-hour licences.

However, the licences will not become effective until the Government puts an order before Parliament in November.

Some people - including the Government- believe extending opening hours will reduce drink-related disorder because revellers will not all be leaving pubs and clubs at the same time.

As proof that the scheme will work, supporters cite places like France and Italy -which have longer opening hours but less binge-drinking and drink-related violence.

However, critics think that British attitudes will mean 24-hour licensing will not result in the peaceful continental culture.

They claim it will increase binge drinking and public disorder, making extra work for Britain's already-stretched police forces.

The Examiner spoke to pubs and clubs in Huddersfield to find out what they think of the new laws.

Tracey Dewar, is assistant manager of Livingstones nightclub on Zetland Street, said: "We close at 2am each night except Sundays, when it's 12.30am.

"I can't see us getting a 24 hour licence. The hours management work at the moment is bad enough without having 24-hour opening. I don't think there would be demand for it.

"I can't see it working to stop trouble, but we don't really have any trouble anyway."

Richard Downey owns the Rock Cafe on Ramsden Street.

He thinks 24-hour licensing will lead to more binge drinking and disorder.

He said: "The Government have made a complete hash of licensing laws.

"They have relaxed them and allowed everyone to open premises without proving there is a need for them.

"This is why you've got so many bars on one street, competing for trade with cheap booze.

"Now the Government are adding insult by allowing 24-hour licensing.

"It's bad news for the industry and for town centres that are going to be ungovernable."

Lee Alderman is licensee of the Zephyr bar on King Street.

He thinks not many pubs in Huddersfield would take on the 24 hour licences.

He said: "The main problem is public disturbance. At the moment at least the police know when it's going to happen. The new hours might drag it out a bit, but I can't see the new laws having an impact here, because I can't see many places changing their hours."