29 million U.K. workdays lost to hangovers

LONDON, Aug. 23 (UPI) -- A poll has shown British business loses 29 million work days and $5 billion every year to employees too hung over to work, The Mirror reported.

The Internet recruiting firm Reed.co.uk polled 8,450 workers on the issue as relaxed alcohol laws are set to take effect next year. The new laws permit the sale of alcohol 24 hours a day.

In the poll, 51 percent of workers said they believed all-day drinking would ultimately be bad for business.

However, women were more tolerant of showing up for work hung over, with 35 percent calling it acceptable while just 26 percent of men thought it was OK.