Beer & Pub Sector Urge Next FM to ‘Throw-Out Ludicrous Advertising Proposals’

The leading trade association representing pubs and brewers urged the next First Minister to ‘throw-out’ the proposals on alcohol adver tising as the Scottish Government s consultation, which close this week

Both leading candidates to be the next SNP leader and First Minister, Humza Yousaf and Kate Forbes have highlighted concerns regarding the proposed measures which would destroy the Scottish brewing and distilling industr y, and would have widespread negative ramifications for tourism, spor t, events, and the economy

Emma McClarkin OBE, CEO of the Scottish Beer & Pub Association, said: This poorly conceived consultation was entirely unbalanced, at odds with wider Government goals and policies, and refused to acknowledge the economic , social, historic , and cultural impor tance of the brewing, distilling and hospitality sector

“If enacted, the proposals would have a catastrophic impact not just for Scottish producers, but for so many other vital sectors that are engines of economic growth This would include our tourism industr y as well as spor ts clubs and associations, from professional to grassroots community level Our cultural sector, theatres and cinemas would also come under additional pressure as well as public transpor t providers

“It is encouraging to hear the SNP leadership candidates have some understanding of this potential damage and are committed to a rethink The beer and pub sector remain steadfast in their commitment to responsible consumption and reducing health harms but we strongly urge the new First Minister once elected, to quickly throw-out these ludicrous proposals and instead look to targeted inter ventions and par tnership working with key stakeholders ”