17 Dec 2014

Report backs more alcohol restrictions

4:36 pm on 17 December 2014

A new report is calling for a crackdown on alcohol sponsorship and advertising, saying that at times a complete ad ban is needed.

The Ministerial Forum on Alcohol Advertising and Sponsorship was established in February this year under the chairmanship of businessman and former rugby league coach and administrator Graham Lowe.

Read the full report (PDF, 1.2MB)

The forum was asked to consider whether increased restrictions on alcohol advertising and sponsorship are needed to reduce alcohol-related harm.

The report makes 14 recommendations, including a complete ban on alcohol sponsorship of sport and advertising or sponsorship around all broadcast sporting events.

The forum said it was concerning to hear evidence that retailers specifically target lower socio-

economic areas for alcohol advertising and promotion.

It also recommends further restrictions in bid to reduce youth exposure to alcohol.

Justice Minister Amy Adams said today the report raises a number of questions and officials would have a deeper look at the recommendations and report back in the middle of next year.

Get the RNZ app

for ad-free news and current affairs