Scots Committee calls for views on proposed alcohol legislation
By News Scotland, , ,

Proposed legislation which has the aim of promoting public health and reducing alcohol related offending is being scrutinised by the Health and Sport Committee who has issued a call for views on the proposals.

The Alcohol (Licensing, Public Health and Criminal Justice) (Scotland) Bill which was introduced by Dr Richard Simpson MSP contains measures that: 

  • Place restrictions on the retailing and advertising of alcoholic drinks, including placing a restriction on alcoholic drinks containing caffeine;
  • Make changes to licensing laws;
  • Place obligations on the Scottish Ministers to publish, review and report on its alcohol education policy; and
  • Directs certain people whose offending or antisocial behaviour is attributable to alcohol consumption towards treatment or restrictions on that consumption.

Convener of the Committee, Duncan McNeil MSP said: “This Bill contains many wide ranging provisions including measures which aim to tackle underage drinking, restrictions on advertising alcoholic drinks and a focus on providing alcohol awareness training. 

“The misuse of alcohol has a devastating impact both on communities and individuals across Scotland. However, it is the role of this Committee to look at the detail behind the proposals and determine is if this legislation would make a positive difference.” 

Deputy Convener of the Committee Bob Doris MSP said: “Our Committee is interested in hearing from a wide range of organisations and individuals on their view of this legislation.  

“From GPs and the Police, to Local Authorities and the Scottish Government, this proposed legislation contains many provisions that will impact on these organisations.  

“MSPs are also interested in hearing from individuals who have first-hand experience of some of the issues this bill is trying to address.”

The Committee is looking for the following questions to be answered: 

  • Do you support the Bill as a whole?
  • Do you support particular provisions in the Bill?
  • Do you have concerns about particular provisions in the Bill? 
  • How will the particular provisions in the Bill fit with your work, or the work of your organisation?
  • Will the Bill have financial or resource implications for you or your organisation?
  • Do you have any other comments or suggestions relevant to the Bill?

The Committee’s call for views is open until 24 June and more can be found here: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/newsandmediacentre/89480.aspx#sthash.6A0iBC1D.dpuf