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5th August 2022

Portman Group’s response to the National Records of Scotland statistics on alcohol specific deaths

In response to the release of the National Records of Scotland statistics on alcohol specific deaths, Nicola Bates, Strategy Director of the Portman Group – the alcohol social responsibility body and marketing regulator, said:

“Today’s figures show a small increase in alcohol-specific deaths on top of last year’s sharp increase, every death is a tragedy for the people concerned and their family and friends. The longer term impact of pandemic drinking for a small group of drinkers continues and there is increasing evidence that targeted, health focussed action is needed for those drinking at the highest harm level.”

*ENDS*

Notes to editors

  1. A spokesperson is available for interviews upon request.
  2. The Portman Group was formed in 1989. It is the alcohol industry regulator and social responsibility body. It has over 150 Code signatories from producers, retailers and membership bodies.
  3. The Portman Group is funded by 17 member companies: Asahi UK Ltd; Aston Manor Cider; Bacardi; Brown-Forman; Budweiser Brewing Group UK&I; Campari; C&C; Diageo GB; Edrington UK; Heineken UK; Mark Anthony Brands International; Mast-Jäegermeister UK; Molson Coors Beverage Company; Pernod Ricard UK, SHS Drinks; Thatchers’; and Treasury Wine Estates.
  4. The Code of Practice for the Naming, Packaging and Promotion of Alcoholic Drinks was first published in 1996. In 2021, we celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Code. The Code seeks to ensure that alcohol is promoted in a socially responsible way, only to those aged 18 and over, and in a way that does not appeal particularly to those who are vulnerable. The Code has helped create an industry that works effectively within the context of a self-regulatory model, while encouraging design, innovation and creativity. This has been done in an effective, responsive and inexpensive way.
    1. Effectively – over 170 products have been amended or removed from the market. Many hundreds more have been helped to adhere to the Code before appearing on shelves through the support of the Advisory Service;
    2. Responsively – there have been five updates to the Code over 25 years responding to changes in public attitudes and expanding its reach; all without recourse to Government or Parliamentary time;
    3. Inexpensively – the leading members of the industry are currently funding the model for all to be protected at no cost to the public purse.

Press release from Portman Group.

For enquiries, please contact Joseph Meaden via JMeaden@portmangroup.org.uk