Low Alcohol Drinks: Age Assurance
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether his Department plans to formally consult on banning the sale of low and no alcohol products to under 18s.
Answered by Mrs Sharon Hodgson
In the 10-Year Health Plan, the Government committed to consult on raising the upper alcohol limit for drinks labelled as alcohol-free to 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV) from 0.05% ABV. The Government also committed to explore options to restrict access to alcohol-free and low alcohol products, so they are treated in the same ways as all alcohol products, including banning sales to children aged under 18 years old.
Engagement sessions, where these two commitments were discussed, with public health stakeholders, producers and retailers, have recently concluded.
Departmental officials are reviewing the insights and evidence gathered from these sessions, and the evidence base more generally, to inform policy development and determine next steps. We will update stakeholders in due course.
Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →