An MP on Wednesday called on authorities to impose a total ban on alcoholic drinks and close down bars at hotels.

"Sixteen million litres of wine was allowed in one year," Al Asala bloc MP Abdulhalim Murad claimed.

He also accused authorities of transgressing Islamic precepts.

He was referring to the first article of the constitution, which defines Bahrain's identity as an Arab and Islamic country.

"Islam is the official religion of Bahrain and its source of legislation. How can we tolerate the sale and drinking of alcohol in public?," he said.

He blamed the dramatic rise in road accidents and crimes on alcoholic drinks.

He also praised former minister of state for foreign affairs and information minister Dr Mohammed Abdulghaffar for pledging to impose a total ban. - TradeArabia News Service