Happy hours, alcohol promotions and labelling under review

Happy hours and "irresponsible promotions" could be outlawed under a Government review of alcohol retailers.

New laws on labelling could also be introduced, after three independent reviews suggested that the industry is not following voluntary agreements.

The regulations are proposed in a consultation on England's drinking culture, launched today by public health minister Dawn Primarolo.

"At best the standards are being applied in a fragmented way," said Home Office minister Tony McNulty. "At worst in many places alcohol is being sold and marketed irresponsibly."

The drinks industry was first asked to display the number of units in each drink ten years ago. However, a review published today by consultants KPMG found that 43% of drinks did not display unit information on their labelling.

Association of Convenience Stores chief executive James Lowman urged retailers to help change drinking culture in the UK by running responsible businesses. "This includes taking part in successful industry initiatives such as Challenge 21 and No ID No Sale," Lowman said. "Also by playing their part in the growing local partnerships that are developing community-based solutions to local alcohol-related problems."

Mark Hastings, director of communications for the British Beer and Pub Association, called on agencies to look at ways of better enforcing existing laws, before introducing new ones.

"This is an industry that already bears the burden of one of the heaviest tax and regulation regimes in the world," he said.