- Further discussions to be held on reducing alcohol harm.
The Scottish Government will hold more talks with public health
stakeholders and the alcohol industry early next year to discuss
ways of limiting young people’s exposure to alcohol promotions.
The development comes following publication of the Scottish
Government’s recent consultation analysis on restricting alcohol
advertising and promotions.
The report shows the majority of individuals and most
organisations with links to the alcohol industry thought the
proposals as set out would not achieve the intended outcomes of
reducing alcohol consumption and alcohol harm, and/or were
disproportionate to the scale of the problem. However, there were
high levels of agreement with the proposals among public health,
third sector, local authorities and academic organisations.
Following targeted stakeholder engagement, the public will be
asked for their views on a narrower range of proposals which take
into account the views expressed and international public health
evidence, including a recommendation from the World Health
Organization (WHO) that restricting alcohol marketing is one of
the most cost-effective ways of tackling alcohol harm.
Drugs and Alcohol Policy Minister said:
“My sympathy goes to all those affected by the loss of a loved
one through alcohol. We’re determined to reduce the harm caused
by alcohol, particularly to young people, while minimising any
impacts on Scotland’s world class drinks industry or tourism
sector.
“International evidence shows that alcohol marketing increases
the likelihood that children and young people will start to drink
alcohol or, if they already drink alcohol, drink more, while
young people and their families have told us that they want us to
take action.
“While almost all responses to the consultation acknowledged that
children and young people should not be exposed to alcohol
advertising and promotions, it is clear there are a range of
views on how this might be achieved. Since the consultation was
launched, the First Minister and other Ministers have engaged
with a wide range of businesses and stakeholders.
“So we will continue to engage with all interested parties on
specific, narrower, proposals that meet our aims. I’m confident
this collaborative approach will ensure that we develop policies
understanding the full range of opportunities and impacts.”
Background
Consultation on
Restricting Alcohol Advertising and Promotion: Analysis of
responses
The consultation on restricting alcohol advertising and
promotions ran from November 2022 - March 2023. The consultation
received 2,408 personalised responses from 1,985 individuals and
423 organisations. In addition, it received 585 responses through
campaigns organised by the Campaign for Real Ale and the Scottish
Beer and Pub Association.
Respondents were asked for their views about the marketing of
alcohol in a variety of settings, including sports and cultural
events, outdoor and public spaces, retail, print and online
media, television and radio and cinemas.
