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BMA spokesman calls for action to tackle alcohol misuse in Scotland

The BMA Scotland response to the Scottish Government's proposed strategy to tackle alcohol misuse, argues that voluntary measures have failed* and states that legislation and practical action is now required.

Dr Peter Terry, Chairman of BMA Scotland said: "Doctors witness first hand how alcohol misuse destroys lives. The facts are simple - voluntary measures implemented by the drinks industry are not effective and do not reduce the damage of alcohol misuse in Scotland. The Scottish Government must re-evaluate its relationship with the drinks industry which clearly has a conflict of interest and is flouting the current voluntary measures. Government must combat the devastation that alcohol misuse has on Scotland's population. We therefore need to step up, legislate and take action.

"The illegal purchase of alcohol by young people is a significant problem in the UK. Excessively cheap promotions are particularly likely to fuel heavy drinking and alcohol related crime and disorder. This explains why the BMA supports actions to address the promotion, price and access to alcohol. But we must remember that no single policy will solve the problem.

"If the Scottish Government wants to tackle Scotland's drinking problem, it needs a comprehensive strategy that is fully resourced and followed through. We need to let retailers and the drinks industry know we mean business. Selling alcohol to under-18s and irresponsible alcohol promotion will not be ignored in Scotland any longer."

Article originally published on 08/08/2008 by DryOutNow.com, the alcohol specific website for Addiction Advisor

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