HC Deb 21 November 2000 vol 357 cc157-8W
16. Mr. Hopkins

To ask the Secretary of State for Health when he will publish the Government's national alcohol strategy. [137651]

Ms Stuart

We remain committed to the publication of a cross Government strategy to tackle alcohol misuse, and we are working with key stakeholders across Government, the alcohol field and the alcohol industry to ensure that this commitment is delivered.

We expect to publish a consultation paper on the strategy in the new year.

Mr. Tony Lloyd

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to include alcohol abuse within the remit of the National Treatment Agency; and if he will make a statement. [138746]

Ms Stuart

A public consultation will begin shortly on the proposed new National Treatment Agency for Substance Misuse. This will afford the opportunity for the agency's role in relation to alcohol to be discussed.