RCN responds to evidence that alcohol on TV makes people drink more
Published: 04 March 2009
Commenting on new research showing that the portrayal of alcohol in films and TV advertisements has an immediate effect on the amount of alcohol that people drink, published today in the Alcohol and Alcoholism journal, Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive & General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing, said:
“This research provides further evidence of the direct influence advertising has on the amount of alcohol people drink, and provides clear rationale for the Government to tighten up legislation regarding the advertising and sale of alcoholic drinks.
“In light of the latest findings, the RCN renews its calls for the Government to introduce a national mandatory code to address the serious issue of alcohol abuse in the United Kingdom, as the current self-regulatory, voluntary system is not providing an effective solution in combating excessive alcohol consumption.
“Consumers have a right to know about the dire consequences of drinking to excess – including guidance in all forms of alcohol advertising about the damage caused by excessive drinking would help to encourage a more responsible attitude to alcohol.”
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Notes to Editors
For further information, interviews with relevant case studies or illustrations please contact the RCN Media Office on 0207 647 3633, press.office@rcn.org.uk or visit http://www.rcn.org.uk/news/mediacentre.php
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.