Home Office minister Lord Bassam has backed plans for a ban on street drinking.

Lord Bassam, former leader of Brighton and Hove Council, said he often felt intimidated when walking past drunks in St James's Street, Kemp Town.

He said: "No one wants to be a killjoy or prevent legitimate licensed premises selling alcohol in a controlled environment.

"But there is little doubt that roaming lager louts and intimidating street drinkers can drag an area down and create a climate of fear on the streets. I often feel intimidated walking down St James's Street and I know women in particular feel vulnerable."

Lord Bassam, who lives in Kemp Town, is backing proposals put forward by Labour councillor Jackie Lythell, who represents Queen's Park ward She started campaigning for a ban on drinkingalcohol in St James's Street in April following reports of traders and passers-by being harassed by drunks.

In August, the proposals received all-party support. Council officers have examined the proposals and a survey will be held to find out what people living and working in the area think of them.

Similar schemes have already proved successful in clearing the streets of nuisance drinkers in parts of Coventry.

Lord Bassam said particular attention would have to be paid to the boundaries of the alcohol-free zone.

He said: "The council will have to decide if the bylaw will also apply to other areas in Brighton and Hove.

"It could be a useful opportunity to run a pilot scheme in one part of the borough and see how it works."

Today Coun Lythell was meeting Lord Bassam and other residents of the area to discuss the proposed bylaw.

Lord Bassam believes it could help ensure recent investment in St James's Street, like the installation of CCTV and wider pedestrian areas, has a lasting impact.

He said: "I think we should work to protect this investment."