15/05/2009 - `Reckless` drinks promos targeted
A crackdown on `irresponsible` drinks promotions would see pubs, bars and off-licences face fines of up to £20,000 for breaking rules, the Government has proposed.
Ministers want to impose a mandatory code to stop offers that encourage irresponsible drinking, such as the `dentist's chair` where alcohol is poured directly into a drinker`s mouth.
The code will also target `all you can drink` deals and bulk-buy discounts at supermarkets, while the Home Office wants to give new powers to councils in England and Wales so they can target specific outlets, such as major nightclubs, if they are found to be causing drink-fuelled violence.
As well as the £20,000 fine, landlords could lose their licence and face up to six months in prison.
Home Secretary Jacqui Smith will say she does not want to penalise responsible drinkers and businesses, or impose a blanket ban on `happy hour`.
But she will say Government has a duty to act to curb the effects of excessive drinking on society.
Official estimates put the cost to the UK economy of excessive alcohol consumption at up to £13 billion a year. Ministers are also concerned about the links between drinking and crime.
Copyright © Press Association 2009
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