Johnson unveils transport alcohol ban

Mayor of London Boris Johnson has unveiled plans to ban alcohol on the capital's transport system.

From June 1 drinking from or carrying open containers of alcohol will be banned on London Underground, buses, Docklands Light Railway and tram services.

Johnson said: "I'm determined to improve the safety and security of public transport in London and create a better environment for the millions of Londoners who rely on it.

"I firmly believe that if we drive out so-called minor crime then we will be able to get a firm grip on more serious crime.

"That's why from June 1 the drinking of alcohol will be banned from Tube, tram, bus and Docklands Light Railway.

"The ban is supported by the Metropolitan Police and British Transport Police, and over the next month Transport for London will make the necessary legal changes and consult with staff."

New posters will be used to advise passengers of the no-alcohol policy.

The move was one of Johnson's election pledges, and is part of a wider strategy to tackle violent crime and anti-social behaviour.

He has also appointed as deputy mayor for young people the Guyanan-born former prison governor Ray Lewis, with a brief to end the "tragic trend" of "kids killing other kids".

On Tuesday night a minister in the Lords pledged the government's "full co-operation" with Johnson, the first Conservative to hold the job of London mayor.

Lord Davies of Oldham, replying to a Lords debate on tourism and hospitality in London, said: "There will be the fullest co-operation, working with the new mayor of London in the manifold challenges he faces."