Alcohol Concern responds to the Home Office summer blitz campaign

17th September 2004

Alcohol Concern responds to the Home Office summer blitz campaign

Geethika Jayatilaka, Director of Policy and Public Affairs for Alcohol Concern, said:
?The figures from the summer campaign have highlighted the importance of tackling the issues of underage sales and the anti-social behaviour associated with binge drinking. It?s a promising start to see such good results coming from the Government, Police force and local Trading Standards Officers working together.

But this blitz must be seen as the beginning rather than the end of the story. Naming and shaming of off-licenses, making prosecutions and issuing exclusion orders should become the every day norm rather than a short-term campaign if the Government is serious about making a difference in the long-run.

Making sure that the alcohol Industry - both producers and retailers play their part in promoting sensible drinking is also key to this change. The alcohol strategy makes it clear that if industry actions are not making any impact in reducing harm, the Government will be proactive in taking steps to introduce further legislation and we will be watching closely to see if words are met with actions.?
ENDS

For press enquiries please contact Sophie Davison, Alcohol Concern press office on 020 7928 7377.

Note to Editors

Alcohol Concern is the national agency working to reduce alcohol related harm in society. We campaign for action on alcohol misuse, making recommendations to key policy makers and professionals. We also help develop the level and quality of alcohol services available to problem drinkers and their families.

Date: 17 September 2004