ACS

ACS Public Affairs Director Shane Brennan, addressed a meeting of MPs on 24th June expressing concerns about the Government’s planned Mandatory Alcohol Code of Practice.

Addressing the meeting of the All Party Parliamentary Retail Group he said: “The challenges of preventing alcohol related harm are being tackled in innovative ways in communities across the country. This growing activity is due in large part to the growing experience of using the tools and approach enshrined in the alcohol Localising Act. The introduction of a new layer of bureaucracy into the legislation at this stage is unnecessary and confusing.”

He also explained how the Code could give rise to absurdities. “Under one proposal in this code, it would become an offence punishable by six months in prison and a £20,000 fine to not use an underage sales prevention policy called ‘Challenge 21.’ This is a draconian penalty more severe that the penalty for committing the offence of selling alcohol to a child.

“The new code makes the existing legislation more complex, confuses the role of the licensing authority and imposes a straight jacket on innovative local solutions.”

The mandatory alcohol code is currently out for consultation until the beginning of August. To view it click here. ACS will be making a full response.