ACS

ACS has welcomed the Government’s commitment to strengthen sanctions against individuals who use alcohol irresponsibly. Ministers have also indicated that there will be additional powers for local authorities to act against the minority of premises who do not retail responsibly or who sell irresponsible products. There will also be a consultation on a mandatory code covering all alcohol retailers, implemented through mandatory licensing conditions.

James Lowman Chief Executive of ACS said: “It is right that the Government creates more sanctions to deal with both adults and young people who repeatedly drink irresponsibly in our community. There needs to a range of punishments which reflect an individual’s culpability in alcohol related anti-social behaviour.”

Mr Lowman also commented on the code of practice for alcohol retailers: “We are committed to our role as responsible retailers and to delivering our part in reducing alcohol harm. However we believe that a code of practice that affects all retailers is likely to be a bureaucratic straight-jacket on retailers and local authorities. For example, a code that dictates certain training for convenience store staff has the potential to be very restrictive and burdensome on our sector.

“We are keen to see more details on the proposed restrictions on price and promotion. We are not convinced that there is a robust evidence base to show that measures outlined in this code of practice to restrict the way alcohol is promoted will prevent alcohol related harms. Such measures may undermine competitiveness and harm the interests of responsible consumers.

“We are also concerned about the Government’s pledge to pursue a ‘two strikes and you’re out’ policy in relation to alcohol retailers. We support effective sanctions against irresponsible retailers but think the priority should be placed on partnership working and not draconian enforcement. “