On 15 February, the UK government opened a 'consultation on options for improving information on the labels of alcoholic drinks to support consumers to make healthier choices in the UK'. The launch of this consultation follows the publication of a report stating that 85% of alcoholic drinks in the UK are still not properly labeled, therefore failing to comply with the voluntary agreement put in place by the alcohol industry in 2007. EASL welcomes the consultation and hopes that it will address the shortcomings of the self-regulatory approach to alcohol policy. The consultation will present a unique opportunity for research and public health organisations to express the need for binding legislation on alcoholic drinks labels. Responses to the consultation are to be sent by 9 May 2010.

More information is available at:
http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Consultations/Liveconsultations/DH_112472