New liquor laws a step closer

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The controversial Liquor Amendment Bill, now with cabinet, saw the Department of Health propose a ban on alcohol advertising.

The amended bill is expected to be passed by parliament within the coming weeks.

The bill was formerly met with positivity, however, doubts have been raised lately after it was reported that the department of health had meddled with the bill to make some last minute changes with a total ban on all alcohol advertising being a point of controversy.

If the bill is passed, it is expected that alcohol ads on TV and radio will be banned from 6am to 10pm and the age limit for drinking will be increased from 18 to 21.

Other proposed changes include:

• Banning the supply of liquor and methylated spirits to persons under the age of 21, including any and all alcoholic advertisements which are aimed at people under the age of 21.
• The prohibition of the manufacturing, distribution or retail sale of liquor in both rural and urban communities, on any location that is less than 500 metres away from schools, places of worship, recreational facilities, rehabilitation or treatment centres, residential areas, public institutions and other like amenities.
• Manufacturers and suppliers of alcohol to illegal or unlicensed outlets will effectively be liable for all damages caused by their unlawful distribution.

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