Mandatory code: have your say
Morning Advertiser readers can do their bit to halt the introduction of the onerous mandatory alcohol retailing code.
Simply click here to vote for or against the code and add any other comments you wish to make.
The results will be used by Liberal Democrat peer Rupert Redesdale as evidence for ditching the code during a debate on the controversial code in the House of Lords from 7pm on Monday.
The code, which has yet to be rubber stamped in Parliament, will see pubs banned from running some drinks deals such as all-inclusives and the "dentist's chair" from 6 April.
From 1 October, asking ID from anyone who appears underage and offering smaller drinks measures will be compulsory.
Redesdale opposes the code on the ground that:
• This is unnecessary legislation which duplicates existing powers
• The Government tells us it's being brought in for the benefit of local authorities and police and yet the local authorities and police say they don't want it
• Alcohol consumption is dropping. In the five years from 2004 to 2009, overall alcohol consumption per head decreased by 12.3%; and consumption in the on trade dropped by 25.1% from 2000 to 2008
• Existing voluntary schemes are having a massive impact (circa 30% reduction in alcohol-related crime and disorder in some areas) and should be allowed to realise their full potential and continue to make a difference.
Redesdale said: "The industry takes a very serious view of the negative impacts of alcohol misuse but we have many practical measures in place.
"Rather than focus on the negatives and the minority view, let's praise, support and encourage the vast amount of positive activity that is already taking place."
