House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Alcohol Products: Labelling

27 April 2021 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Dan Carden Lab Liverpool Walton

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Dan Carden raised concerns about alcohol products: labelling in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

Member raised concerns about lack of regulation around alcohol labelling, calling for mandatory nutritional information and health warnings
MP noted 80 deaths a day in UK linked to alcohol, many among young people
Minister acknowledged need for better labelling and committed to consulting on mandatory calorie labelling in pre-packaged alcohol and licensed venues

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Dan Carden Lab Liverpool Walton

The Member raised concerns about the lack of regulation around alcohol labelling, emphasising the need for mandatory nutritional information including calories, ingredients and health warnings to help consumers make informed decisions. He highlighted that alcohol harm is rising, with 80 deaths a day linked to it in the UK, many among young people. The MP noted the inconsistency in current labelling practices compared to other food products and argued for stronger regulation of the alcohol industry, including an independent regulator free from corporate influence. Dan Carden also called for a national alcohol strategy to address the broader issues related to alcohol harm.

Other contributors (1)

Jo Churchill Con Nottingham North

The Member acknowledged the need to improve alcohol labelling but emphasised the importance of addressing overall alcohol consumption and misuse. She noted an increase in harmful drinking patterns during the pandemic, highlighted the disparity in health outcomes based on socioeconomic status, and stressed the significance of educating people about responsible drinking.

Government Response

Eleanor Laing

The Minister acknowledged the need for better alcohol labelling to help consumers make informed choices. She praised current efforts by retailers and industry bodies to include CMO guidelines on labels, despite delays due to the pandemic. The Government is committed to consulting soon on mandatory calorie labelling on pre-packaged alcohol products and in licensed venues. She expressed willingness to work with the industry to address irresponsible marketing practices while ensuring public health protection remains a priority.