Overview

This bill mandates specific labelling on alcoholic beverage containers in the UK, primarily advising against alcohol consumption during pregnancy and preventing misleading labels suggesting reduced harm compared to other alcoholic beverages. The bill also outlines enforcement procedures and penalties for non-compliance.

Description

Mandatory Labelling

Producers of alcoholic beverages (above 0.5% ABV) must include the warning "Avoid alcohol if pregnant or trying to conceive" on each container. Alternatively, the government may allow a symbol or pictogram instead. This requirement doesn't apply to outer packaging (boxes, cartons etc.) or containers already compliant with a pre-existing voluntary agreement.

Misleading Labels

It's an offence to supply alcoholic beverages with labels suggesting they are less harmful than others.

Enforcement

Local authorities are responsible for enforcement. The government can take over enforcement in specific cases. They have powers of entry to premises (excluding private homes), inspection, and to seize relevant materials. Obstruction of officers is also an offence.

Penalties

Penalties for offences include fines, varying depending on the specific violation.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. Costs will likely arise from enforcement by local authorities and potential government takeover of specific cases. There may also be costs associated with developing and implementing any alternative pictograms.

Groups Affected

• Alcoholic beverage producers: Required to comply with new labelling regulations, facing penalties for non-compliance.
• Suppliers of alcoholic beverages: Responsible for ensuring compliance and facing penalties for supplying non-compliant products.
• Local authorities: Responsible for enforcement, potentially incurring additional costs.
• Pregnant women and those trying to conceive: Directly benefit from clearer warnings about alcohol consumption.
• Consumers: Will see changes in alcoholic beverage labels.

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