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Alcohol strategy tackles unsociable drink culture
The government has launched a new alcohol strategy to encourage a more responsible attitude to drinking nationwide.
The Safe, Sensible, Social scheme aims to reduce health-related illnesses and anti-social behaviour resulting from alcohol misuse.
Home office minister Vernon Coaker said: “Most people in this country do drink safely and responsibly, but the damage caused by those who don't costs £20bn a year in crime and damage to health.”
The government plans to implement tougher legal enforcement for drunken behaviour and will hold a public consultation on alcohol pricing and promotion in a bid to create a more responsible drinking culture in the UK.
Commenting on the strategy, Mark Hastings, director of communications of the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA), said: “We will look in detail at the proposals and engage constructively on this agenda. However, we are disappointed that the government has developed this strategy without any effective consultation.
“It is also important to recognise that the amount we drink has fallen for the last two years. In the last 12 months, it fell by more than 4 per cent – the largest fall for 30 years. The change in our licensing laws has led to reductions in alcohol-related crime and disorder and improvements in drinking patterns.”
John McNamara, chief executive of the BII, has embraced the initiative, saying: “We welcome the government’s recognition of the role of partnerships such as Best Bar None and its commitment to further partnerships with the licensed trade to promote the new strategy.
“I am heartened that the government has recognised the impact of drinking in the home. Education on safe and responsible drinking is essential for all age groups.”
The BII is developing a BIIAB Certificate in Alcohol Awareness and has launched a website called www.schoolsproject.co.uk to help inform those involved in education, such as teachers and youth workers.
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