According to the Times, the UK is considering a ban on alcohol advertising as part of the NHS's ten year plan, with a focus on a shift from reactive to preventative care. The plan is due to be released next week and will apparently include a ban on advertising alcohol, although reportedly a minimum unit price scheme for England along the lines of those in Wales and Scotland has been rejected. Other media appear to be suggesting restrictions along the lines of those being introduced in January for less healthy foods, which include timing restrictions on TV and a complete ban online. The introduction of those rules has already proven challenging, and they have been put back several times. Given that alcohol advertising is already so strictly regulated, we query whether a complete ban is needed or is proportionate, given the government's desire to reduce regulation.
