News

Could alcohol law changes hit tourism?

MOVES to tackle the problems associated with alcohol could have an unwitting impact on the tourism trade.

Last Friday, the Government unveiled its alcohol strategy, with a headline move to introduce a minimum price per unit of alcohol in an effort to cut down on the level of crime and anti-social behaviour associated with heavy drinking.

Under the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011, which will overhaul the Licensing Act of 2003, police and licensing authorities in England and Wales will get more local powers to tackle irresponsible premises and crack down on unacceptable sales of alcohol to children.

However, there are worries that new stricter advertising rules could impact on responsible businesses in the tourism sector which use promotions to attract customers.

For example, how will the changes affect offers such as free wine with a meal, free champagne when booking a romantic break, or a free bottle of wine in a welcome pack?

The Government intends to bring most of the reforms into force on April 25.

The document below, particularly section 2, explains what the Government’s plans are and how they may affect businesses offering alcohol promotions.

Download

Alcohol strategt