The Scottish Government has announced that visitor attractions, including distilleries and breweries, are to be excluded from new legislation that will lead to restrictions on the display of alcohol.

New measures are to be introduced across the country from 1 September under the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 in a bid to tackle alcohol abuse, which is in addition to the £120m already being invested by the government to identify and treat alcohol-related issues. However, justice secretary Kenny MacAskill revealed that distillery visitor centres and sites that promote the history of Scottish drinks will be exempt from the regulations in order to maintain the visitor experience at such attractions.

MacAskill said: "During my recent visit to the Fettercairn Distillery and the Scottish Liqueur Centre, I've seen the job these attractions do. They are boosting tourism, providing jobs to local communities and producing drinks that are recognised around the world. "I am now laying down regulations in Parliament that mean these attractions can make sure their gift shops are able to continue to trade in a way which compliments the rest of the experience."

Campbell Evans, government and consumer affairs director at The Scotch Whisky Association, added: "Distilleries attract visitors from around the world and offer a high quality tourist experience. We have worked closely with the government to agree a pragmatic and workable solution so that visitor centres can continue to showcase Scotch Whisky and a wide range of other local products. "The revised regulations are a recognition that it is possible to tackle alcohol misuse, whilst avoiding unintended negative consequences for a key Scottish industry."