RCN calls for mandatory code on alcohol labelling

Published: 15 February 2010

The Royal College of Nursing today welcomed the launch of a UK-wide consultation on the labelling of alcohol.
 
Tom Sandford, Director of RCN England, said:

“Throughout the UK, nurses see the devastating consequences of alcohol misuse everyday. It is vital that tougher action is taken to turn the tide on the rising numbers of people who are suffering, or even dying, as a result of excessive drinking.

“Today’s report confirms what we already know – the drinks industry has failed to stick by its promise to take voluntary action on alcohol labelling. We can’t afford to keep giving the industry the option not to make changes which are essential to protecting the nation’s health. That is why the RCN is calling for a mandatory code which would introduce tighter regulation of the advertising, labelling and sale of alcohol.

“As we approach the general election, all parties must realise the severity of the nation’s disastrous relationship with alcohol and make a firm commitment to take drastic action to stop it spiralling out of control.”

Ends

Notes for Editors

For further information, interviews or illustrations please contact the RCN Media Office on 0207 647 3633, press.office@rcn.org.uk or visit http://www.rcn.org.uk/newsevents/media

Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nurses and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organisations.