Restrictions on alcohol promotions and an increase of licensing fees across England and Wales has been heavily criticised.
The House of Lords Committee Review has recommended further restrictions on alcohol promotions – which are already in place in Scotland – while also allocating power to local authorities to increase licensing fees in their area.
The moves would mean additional costs for local shops, pubs, and restaurants.
The committee has also said the minimum alcohol pricing scheme should be rolled out nationwide if successful in Scotland.
James McCormick, of Bargain Booze in Skelmersdale, Lancashire, said he does a lot of multi-buy deals on spirits and beer and is concerned it would negatively impact his business.
“I don’t think this will stop people drinking who are addicted,” he said. “I stopped doing deals on strong lager a while ago, and people still buy it.”
James Lowman, ACS chief executive, said: “While we broadly welcome the committee’s report, calls for restrictions on alcohol promotions and citing in-store are a blunt instrument that will harm all consumers, instead of targeting the minority that consume alcohol irresponsibly.”
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