June 10 2004

ALAC opposed early start to alcohol ads

The Alcohol Advisory Council has reiterated that it did not support the decision by the Advertising Standards Authority to allow alcohol advertisements to be played on television at 8.30pm.

A group calling for a blanket ban on television and radio alcohol advertising yesterday presented a petition to Labour MP Dianne Yates calling for a select committee inquiry into the effects of alcohol sponsorship and promotion. The group said the ASA’s decision to allow alcohol advertisements at 8.30pm showed it was not doing its job.

ALAC Chief Executive Officer Dr Mike MacAvoy said ALAC’s 2003 submission to the panel reviewing liquor advertising rules for television and radio called for the start time to be put back from 9pm to 9.30pm.

Dr MacAvoy said ALAC was an evidence based organisation and until “we can clearly establish the link between advertising and young people’s drinking behaviours ALAC would not support a total ban.”

However, Dr MacAvoy said advertisers had to look beyond strict compliance with the codes and act in terms of the new principle of social responsibility, which the advertising standards complaints board can now use when dealing with advertisements, which appeal to young people.

“Advertisers need to think about what part advertising is playing in contributing to New Zealand ‘s drinking culture.”

ENDS

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