Alcohol Concern wecomes committee recognition of UK drinking problem

Tuesday 5th April 2005

Alcohol Concern today welcomed the report of the Home Affairs Select Committee on anti-social behaviour.

Josh Bayly, Policy and Parliamentary Officer said today ?They have rightly identified a long-term cultural shift in British drinking culture as the most effective means of addressing the relationship between alcohol and violent and anti-social behaviour. As the report highlights, it is vital that the planning and licensing policy are integrated to build town centre environments that encourage a sociable, controlled atmosphere in which drinking can be enjoyed without the unnecessary risk.

"A minimum pricing scheme is the very least to which the industry should commit to do its part to tackle the culture of excess that dominates British drinking behaviour. The Government and competition authorities must find a way of allowing this to happen legally. Equally, there is no reason why local public services, and ultimately the taxpayer, should be forced to pick up the bill for the horrific impact of binge drinking whilst the drinks industry drinks up the profits. The proposal for a levy on licensed premises matches our own recommendations.

"The Licensing Act 2003 could have made a real contribution to cultural change in Britain, but unless the Government accepts the sensible recommendations of the Home Affairs Select Committee, that opportunity will have been lost."

ENDS

For press enquiries please contact the Alcohol Concern press office on 020 7928 7377 or email press@alcoholconcern.org.uk.

Date: 05 April 2005