News In Focus
16 February 2010
Health warnings on alcohol could be compulsory
A joint Government consultation has been launched across the UK to improve the information available to people buying alcoholic drinks.
The proposals could see health warnings on alcoholic drinks similar to those on packets of cigarettes.
Scottish ministers have collaborated with the Department of Health at Westminster and the other devolved administrations to produce the documnent, following the limited impact of a voluntary scheme introduced in 2007.
A report published yesterday by the UK Department revealed that only 15% of alcohol labels contain all five of the recommended elements of information to encourage safe drinking.
Scottish Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said that if compliance with the existing voluntary code does not improve, then mandatory labelling will be a "strong option".
The voluntary agreement states that labels should include:
- information on the number of units;
- a message about responsible drinking;
- a logo and link for Drinkaware;
- the recommended NHS limits;
- advice on drinking when pregnant.
Ms Sturgeon said:
"Many people now understand the importance of sticking to recommended guidelines when drinking and what the risks are if you drink too much. But it can be difficult to monitor your drinking if you don't know how many units are in each drink.
"That's why we believe it's important that the drinks industry play their part by making this information available.
"While some labels now include this information, far too many do not. This consultation makes it clear that, if the drinks industry does not act responsibly, the government will not hesitate to take action."
The consultation includes three options:
- do nothing and continue with the current voluntary agreement;
- renew and strengthen the existing self regulatory agreement;
- introduce a mandatory requirement on labelling.
Any decision in Scotland will be for the Scottish Ministers and the Scottish Parliament.
The consultation runs until 9 May.
Click here to access the consultation.