Dr Stoate has today launched a consultation with local residents regarding the issue of alcohol and its effects on their lives.

Talking on the subject, Dr Stoate said, "I am fully aware that alcohol and its consumption represents a problem in Britain.  It is estimated the abuse of alcohol costs the British economy upwards of £2billion a year through employee absenteeism and reduced productivity alone.  The financial implications on public services such as the NHS are no doubt even greater."

"I believe that there are a number of factors to blame for the problems we face and I am proposing some solutions to these factors.  I want to hear what the residents of Dartford have to say about these factors, whether or not they believe the solutions I propose can work and what they would like to see done to deal with the problem."

You can view a copy of the consultation document by clicking HERE .  If you wish to comment on the issues discussed in this document then please email your thoughts to Dr Stoate.