Pubs can serve smaller measures

Some Health campaigners have welcomed a move announced by the Department for Business Innovation and Skills allowing some forms of alcohol to be sold in smaller measures. Campaigners have complained in the past that the trend towards larger servings of alcohol, as well as the increased strength of some drinks, has contributed to the problem of increased consumption in some groups.

Under the present regulations, wine cannot be sold in measures less than 125ml, while beer must be sold in thirds, halves or multiples of half-pints. Fortified wine must be sold in the same quantities as normal wine. Under the coalition government’s changes, premises will be able to sell wine in measures under 75ml, beers can be sold in ‘schooners’ which are two-thirds of a pint, while fortified wine will be sold in smaller sizes of 50ml and 70ml.

Welcoming the move, Chris Sorek, Chief Executive of the industry-funded alcohol awareness charity Drinkaware, said: “Smaller measures of alcohol alone won’t solve the UK’s binge drinking problem, but it’s certainly a great move in helping consumers keep within the recommended daily unit guidelines. Offering beer, cider, wine and fortifi ed wine in smaller measures can help people drink less and avoid alcohol-related harm.”

However, some others have seen in the move a devious ploy to attract women consumers and so to increase alcohol consumption.