Nicola Sturgeon insists 'nobody is telling Scots not to drink' as ministers consider booze ads ban

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Nicola Sturgeon has insisted her government is not telling Scots to quit drinking as part of a clampdown on alcohol advertising.

The First Minister was asked today about a letter signed by more than 100 major brewers and distillers which warned Scotland's world famous drinks industry could be damaged by the plans.The Scottish Government has launched a public consultation asking for views on ways alcohol advertising could be scaled back or even banned in public spaces completely.

It could see shops being prevented from displaying alcoholic drinks on shelves or in store windows.Speaking at a press conference in Edinburgh, the SNP leader said: "This is not about doing economic damage to the alcohol industry - it is about making sure we're taking responsible steps to protect public health."I am aware of the letter and the consultation process is on-going.

The public health minister will meet with stakeholders and we will consider all points made."We had many of these same debates and discussions during the passing of the minimum price for alcohol legislation and the court challenges that came after."This is about a balance.