23/04/2014

Violence Falls For Fifth Consecutive Year As Alcohol Prices Rise

Researchers at Cardiff University claim that a five year decline in violent crime figures in England and Wales could be related to an increase in the cost of alcohol.

According to data, violent crime fell 12% in 2013, with 235,000 people following a violent attack last year, 32,800 fewer cases than in 2012.

The authors said the rising cost of the alcohol might have played a role in the figures and its lead author, Professor Jonathan Shepherd said: "Violence is falling in many Western countries and we don't know all the reasons why. Binge drinking has become less frequent, and the proportion of youth who don't drink alcohol at all has risen sharply.

"Also, after decades in which alcohol has become more affordable, since 2008 it has become less affordable."

Professor Shepherd also said other reasons for the fall in alcohol consumption could be the result of police, NHS and local authorities working together more to prevent violent crime.

The Cardiff University study figures are based on a sample of 117 emergency departments, minor injury units and NHS walk-in centres.

(CVS/MH)

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