Bloomberg forced to reverse decision to close New York liquor stores after bitter criticism by small businesses

In a move to improve public health for New Yorkers a leaked document by Mr Bloomberg's office detailed plans to cut the number of drinking establishments as well as restrict alcohol advertising.

Audible worry from both patrons and local business owners throughout the city led Mr Bloomberg's spokesman Stu Loeser to clarify that the plan was not in fact backed by the mayor.

'One reason the mayor has been successful in office is because we think there are no bad ideas in brainstorming, and then we weigh them against other concerns,' Mr Loeser responded to the New York Post.

'We’re deeply committed to encouraging entrepreneurs to start and expand small businesses in the city,' he explained.

Such a move would have been the latest salvo in Mr Bloomberg's public health campaign, which has previously seen him take aim at smoking, trans fats and salty food.

While he claims his health drive has improved New Yorkers' quality of life, critics deride his approach as a 'nanny state' doctrine which infringes personal liberty.