Drinkers have been served up a shot of good news with plans to clamp down on short measures. However, the proposals were criticised by consumer groups for not going far enough to protect beer and cider drinkers.

Currently, only pubs and bars serving measures of 90 per cent or less can be prosecuted for cheating customers. The new reform would increase the minimum liquid requirement to 95 per cent.

Patricia Hewitt, the trade and industry secretary, said the change would be equivalent to an extra 60m pints a year.

Commenting on the government's decision, chair, John Brackenbury said: 'I am delighted that the government has come to a solution proportionate to the problem.

'The sanction remains that landlords who serve short measures could lose their license while drinkers can still enjoy a decent head on a pint, should they wish.'