Big Way Of Life

The Conservative Party has just released its new green paper on health, with aims to, among other things, curb binge drinking and improve information on food labelling.

Launched by Shadow Health Secretary Andrew Lansley, the paper outlines the policies the Conservatives could implement should they get into power at the general election this May.

One of the major issues the paper, entitled A Healthier Nation, covers is binge drinking. The Conservatives want to have stricter controls over cheap alcohol and put heavier taxes on so-called ‘problem drinks’ such as alcopops and super-strength beer.

They also want tougher licensing regimes to tackle problem venues that encourage irresponsible drinking.

Labelling on food and drinks is also high on the agenda. The paper discusses plans to improve the consistency of information available to the consumer, with regards to Guideline Daily Amounts (GDA) and unit consumption on alcohol labelling. Restaurants, fast-food outlets and cafes will also be encouraged to make nutritional information clearer for customers.

Lansley said about the paper: “We will ensure that business, alongside public authorities, plays its part in improving people's health. We will also support industry-led initiatives to promote better health, such as reducing food portion sizes and reformulation.”

Speaking in response to the proposals, Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) chief executive Jeremy Beadles said: "We welcome steps to encourage consumers to make informed choices and take responsibility for their own behaviour and the opportunity for businesses to be involved in shaping and implementing agreements around responsible marketing of alcohol products.

"It makes sense to provide information for consumers about alcohol in a way that can easily be related to specific drinks. Equally, it is clear that standardised labelling would require European wide agreement.

"We welcome the Green Paper's emphasis on local partnership working. Our experience is that Community Alcohol Partnerships bringing together retailers, police and local authorities have a real impact in tackling alcohol misuse.

"We believe that policies to address alcohol misuse are most likely to succeed if they focus on problem drinkers rather than particular products. Evidence from other countries suggests that higher taxes and prices for certain drinks do not change the behaviour of those who misuse alcohol."

To read the full report, click here.