Britain cracks down on growing violence

LONDON, June 9 (UPI) -- British police will have extraordinary powers under a new plan to crack down on the growing alcohol-induced violence and other forms of anti-social behavior.

The new law would allow police to ban individuals from town centers and other locations for up to 48 hours, the Daily Telegraph reported Thursday.

Notices would be issued to those whose presence "is likely, in all the circumstances, to cause or contribute to the occurrence or continuance in that locality of alcohol-related crime or disorder."

A separate proposed law would make it illegal for anyone under 18 to buy a knife, whether a butter or a combat knife, the report said.

The new laws would also allow magistrates' courts to ban persistent drunks and binge drinkers from all pubs and clubs in designated areas for up to two years.

Britain already faces condemnation from the European Union human rights commission for its existing provisions to fight terrorism and anti-social behavior.