Bill proposed to limit alcohol sales
Bill proposed to limit alcohol sales
Stricter laws needed urgently, says NLA
MANOP THIP-OSOTH & PENCHAN CHAROENSUTHIPAN
https://teakdoor.com/images/smilies1/You_Rock_Emoticon.gifThe anti-alcohol movement pays homage to a "Moral Dignity Pillar", symbolising their support for a bill proposed to the National Legislative Assembly which would control the sale and distribution of alcohol. The rite was performed outside parliament yesterday. — SAROT MEKSOPHANWANNAKUL
The government has agreed to consider provisions in a bill proposed by members of the National Legislative Assembly (NLA) that places limits on the sale and promotion of alcoholic beverages. NLA member Tuang Anthachai put forward his group's bill to the assembly yesterday, citing the necessity for strict controls on the supply and consumption of alcohol which he said often led to accidents, crime and debt.
During the discussion, Public Health Minister Mongkol na Songkhla said Mr Tuang's bill was in line with the government's intentions.
The Public Health Ministry has initiated a similar bill on behalf of the government which the Council of State, the government's legal arm, is scrutinising, he said.
The government would consider integrating provisions in the Tuang bill into the legislation.
The Tuang group's bill would prohibit the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages in temple compounds, places of religious ceremonies, public health sites, government sites, youth clubs, educational grounds, petrol stations and other places the public health minister could specify.
It would also ban the sale of alcohol in vending machines and the promotion of liquor through discounts, giveaways, exchanges and prize contests, or marketing through sample distribution.
The bill proposes both imprisonment and fines for offences.
In addition, the bill would give alcoholics, their relatives and organisations the right to seek government support for rehabilitation.
Mr Tuang said current laws impose only light controls on alcohol consumption.
The nation deserved a stricter law as income from alcohol taxation amounted to only 74 billion baht last year, while damage to life and property, and costs of public treatment due to alcohol consumption was in excess of 100 billion baht annually, he said.
Alcohol consumption cost the average Thai family 206 baht a month and the cost was growing, he warned.
Although he had been advised to wait for a similar bill being drafted by the Public Health Ministry, Mr Tuang said the costly problem of alcohol abuse needed an urgent solution.
Dr Mongkol asked the NLA for permission for the government to consider Mr Tuang's bill. He promised the government would propose its own bill to the NLA within 30 days. The assembly granted permission by 109 votes to three. Supporters of the bill rallied in front of the parliament yesterday.
Bangkok Post 15.02.2007
