Speaking in a Commons debate on the Licensing Act, she said many people's lives were "going to be made a misery", especially those living near pubs.

Lib Dem culture spokesman Don Foster said longer hours must be put "on ice".

Ministers say the new laws will promote sensible drinking and a more civilised atmosphere in towns and cities.

'Worse, not better'

Licensed premises can apply to extend their opening hours beyond 11pm from 24 November, potentially to allow 24-hour drinking in some cases.

Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell has promised that the impact will be monitored and that "unintended consequences" will be addressed.

Critics say the new law will increase drunken disorder but the government has said it would combat binge-drinking.

But Ms Jowell told MPs the government had "shown dedicated commitment to tackling alcohol-related violence".

A delay in implementing the legislation would cause "chaos and confusion" and hit businesses.

However, Mr Foster said: "Experience overseas shows that in the current climate, extending the availability of alcohol will make things worse not better.

"The government must put their longer licensing hours on ice until binge drinking is under control."

Ms May told MPs: "It is dangerous, indeed reckless, to press ahead with longer licensing hours.

"It is not sufficient for the government to light the blue touch paper and look on from the distance."

Ministers say the Licensing Act will enable the authorities to close down pubs more easily, install CCTV, bring in new management or reduce licensing hours.

However, Mr Foster, said: "The reality is these 'new' powers do little but replicate existing and rarely used powers.

"The police already have powers to immediately close down pubs where there is disorder or fear of disorder."

The Tory bid to delay the changes was defeated by 218 votes to 293 - a majority of 75.