BBPA lobby UK ministers over alcohol proposals

30 September, 2010

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) met with the UK Home Office to air concerns over government proposals to change the Licensing Act.

Measures floated by the home secretary, Theresa May, in June, aim to tackle the UK’s so-called binge drinking culture.

The proposals include doubling the fine for serving underage drinkers to £20,000, charging a levy for late-night venues and a ban on below cost alcohol sales.

The meeting follows a letter circulated to ministers by the BBPA that sets out the industry’s key concerns.

The BBPA suggests an approach that makes use of existing laws rather than introducing new measures that “threaten the businesses of Britain’s hospitality and tourism industry”.

Brigid Simmonds, chief executive of the BBPA, said: “Following on from the discussions we have had so far, we have a number of key meetings lined up for the Conservative Party Conference in Birmingham.

“The next critical phase will be providing companies and licenses with the lobby materials they need to take a coordinated and concerted message to all MPs as they return to Westminster following the conference season.”

To read more about proposed changes in UK licensing laws click here.





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