chief executive

Wine & Spirit Trade Association

The drinks industry has prove d to be a successful partner with the government in reducing under-age consumption and encouraging moderate drinking. Through Drinkaware and Challenge 21 we are educating people about sensible drinking, preventing the sale of alcohol to the under-aged and discouraging under-age drinking.

Punishing the majority of responsible drinkers for the sins of a small minority - with higher taxation and regulation - will not tackle the deeper social and lifestyle problems that lie behind excessive and under-age drinking. Instead, we should continue to build on successful partnerships and tackle these underlying problems.