Green Youth Affairs Spokesperson Nandor Tanczos today repeated calls for a ban on alcohol advertising, in light of figures showing that teenagers between 14 and 17 spend $140 million per year on alcohol, an average weekly consumption of $12.40 per teenager.

The figures were released in a statement by the Group Against Liquor Advertising, which also highlighted the link between excessive drinking and a range of teenage social problems including crime, drink driving, suicide and unplanned pregnancy.

"The Greens have repeatedly called for alcohol advertising to be banned by the Government and I currently have a private members bill in the ballot to do this," said Nandor.

"We need to replace the relentless promotion of alcohol on TV with a message of moderation and responsible, healthy use. Simply raising the drinking age does not address the problem.

"Booze companies glamorise their products by linking them to national icons like the All Blacks and Team New Zealand. No wonder kids start to get the message that it's cool to get pissed," he said.

"Are booze companies' profits more important than our children's health and welfare?

"If we are to get serious about the health of our children we must ban alcohol advertising. The success of the ban on tobacco advertising and sponsorship shows that this approach can be a winner."

ENDS

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