Alcohol advertising could be banned across Scottish football under tough new regulations

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Football clubs could be banned from advertising alcohol on match shirts or in stadiums under tough new regulations being considered by the Scottish Government.Health campaigners have long called for a clampdown on brewers and distillers using high-profile sporting events to market their products.SNP ministers have now launched a consultation asking the public to have their say on how booze ads could be restricted across society.It could put an end to long-standing drinks sponsorship deals across all professional sport north of the Border including rugby and golf.Another option under consideration is a total ban on alcohol promotions in public places which would prevent drinks being advertised on billboards or at transport hubs.But SNP ministers lack powers over broadcasting and the internet so would be unlikely to halt booze adverts on TV or radio without agreement from the UK Government.Maree Todd, public health minister, said: "There is clear evidence that adverts which glamorise drinking can encourage young people to drink alcohol and have a detrimental impact on those in recovery from problem alcohol use. "We are making progress already – with our minimum unit pricing reducing alcohol sales in the off-trade – but with 1,245 alcohol related deaths last year we know that more needs to be done if we are to tackle Scotland’s problematic relationship with alcohol."This consultation is an important step in doing that, and I am extremely grateful for the young voices who have helped us get this far."Alison Douglas, chief executive of Alcohol Focus Scotland, said: "We are constantly bombarded by alcohol marketing and it affects us all."It makes alcohol consumption seem normal and desirable when the reality is it is