Alcohol misuse: tackling the UK epidemic - London

BMA Board of Science
Recommendations
As the leading professional organisation representing doctors in the UK, the BMA through this
report, aims to promote the development of comprehensive and effective alcohol control
policies in the UK. The recommendations are for action by the UK Government. They form a
range of evidence-based policies that must be collectively implemented in order to effectively
tackle alcohol misuse and its associated harms.
Access to alcohol – controlling price and availability
Taxation on all alcoholic beverages should be increased at higher than inflation rates and
this increase should be proportionate to the amount of alcohol in the product.
The availability of alcoholic products should be regulated through a reduction in licensing
hours for on- and off-licensed premises.
Town planning and licensing authorities should ensure they consider the local density of
on-licensed premises and the surrounding infrastructure when evaluating any planning or
licensing application. Legislative changes should be introduced where necessary to ensure
these factors are considered in planning or licensing applications for licensed premises.
Responsible retailing and industry practices
Licensing legislation in the UK should be strictly and rigorously enforced. This includes the
use of penalties for breach of licence, suspension or removal of licences, the use of test
purchases to monitor underage sales, and restrictions on individuals with a history of
alcohol-related crime or disorder.
Enforcement agencies should be adequately funded and resourced so that they can
effectively carry out their duties. Consideration should be given to the establishment of a
dedicated alcohol licensing and inspection service.
Legislation should be introduced throughout the UK to:
prohibit irresponsible promotional activities in licensed premises and by off-licences
set minimum price levels for the sale of alcoholic beverages.
A statutory code of practice on the marketing of alcoholic beverages should be introduced
and rigorously enforced. This should include a ban on:
broadcasting of alcohol advertising at any time that is likely to be viewed by young
people, including specific provisions prohibiting advertising prior to 9pm and in cinemas
before films with a certificate below age 18
alcohol industry sponsorship of sporting, music and other entertainment events aimed
mainly at young people
marketing of alcoholic soft drinks to young people.
Alcohol misuse: tackling the UK epidemic 7