Ministers say there are now 65,000 attacks every year on NHS staff in England.

But under guidelines introduced to protect NHS staff, managers have the right to withhold treatment "as a last resort" if staff are threatened, unless the condition is life-threatening.

Health minister John Hutton said: "Alcohol misuse is a particular problem for hospital A&E departments, but NHS staff have the right to work without fear of violence.

"This is a clear message that violent and drunken behaviour towards doctors, nurses and all staff will not be tolerated. Hospitals have the right to withdraw treatment in these cases."

Violent incidents

One in six people attending accident and emergency departments have alcohol-related injuries or problems, rising to eight out of 10 during peak times such as weekends and holidays.

Of the 65,000 violent incidents against NHS trust employees each year, 64% involve nursing staff.

Around the country, hospitals are adopting a "zero tolerance" policy towards abusive and violent patients.

The Welsh Assembly is urging NHS staff to adopt a similar approach, arguing that more measures are needed to stamp out violence in Welsh hospitals.

Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham has started using court injunctions and anti-social behaviour orders.