§ Julie MorganTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will ban(a) happy hours and (b) one-price-for-all-you-can-drink promotions in pubs. [184807]
§ Ms BlearsWe are currently having discussions with the industry around the development of the social responsibility scheme for alcohol retailers. This was one of the recommendations contained in the Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy for England, published by the Prime Minister's Strategy Unit on 15 March 2004. Alcohol retailers will be encouraged to sign up to the scheme which will include a commitment from pubs and clubs to clamp down on irresponsible promotions.
841WThe scheme will be voluntary, but we will be assessing its effectiveness early in the next parliament. If the impact is not as we would expect, we will look to further measures, including the possibility of legislation.