HC Deb 16 October 2002 vol 390 cc899-900W
David Wright

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister when he intends to publish the Government's consultation document on a national alcohol harm reduction strategy. [75042]

Mr. Alexander

I have been asked to reply. It has always been the Government's intention to undertake an extensive process of consultation with stakeholders and relevant groups as part of the development of a National Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy. Yesterday jointly with my hon. Friend Hazel Blears we published a consultation document "National Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy: Consultation Document" setting out the areas on which the Government would welcome views. Copies of this have been placed in the libraries of the House. The consultation period will run until 15 January and responses are sought directly to the Strategy Unit and Department of Health. We will also be holding a series of joint consultation events to seek the views of a range of stakeholders including local

Excess winter deaths* by age-group and Government Office Region of usual residence, 1991/1992–1999/2000 and 2000/2001**
1996/19971 1997/19981 1998/19991 1999/20001 2000/20011
England, Wales and elsewhere 0–64 3040 1700 3100 3770 2300
65–74 6970 4200 6950 7440 3300
75–84 17540 7870 16340 16840 8400
85 + 20140 9130 20450 20390 11000
All ages 47690 22900 46840 48440 25000
North East 0–64 130 110 90 280 100
65–74 500 360 470 480 300
75–84 920 530 890 1030 600
85 + 680 550 920 880 500
All ages 2230 1550 2370 2680 1500

authorities, police, Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships (CDRPs), NHS/ medical services (eg PCTs), education (schools sector), academics (university sector), voluntary sector, non-government organisations, the alcohol industry, users of treatment services and employers. Once the consultation period has closed the Strategy Unit will produce an interim analysis taking account of responses received.

Forward to