Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Helen Jones (Labour). It was answered on Monday, 14 July 2008 on behalf of the Home Office.

Alcohol-induced Crime

Question: My hon. Friend will remember that when we debated this matter in Westminster Hall, we touched on the role of the major supermarkets and other retailers in selling discounted alcohol. While the police in Warrington are taking a proactive stance in cracking down on alcohol-related crime, many people are drunk before they go out for the evening on cheap alcohol obtained from supermarkets. Has he had any further discussions with the supermarkets on the matter?

Answer: My hon. Friend raises an important point. We have had discussions with supermarkets and with colleagues across Government on what we do about the issue of ““pre-loading””—using cheap beer and spirits from supermarkets to avoid the expense of going out. It is a serious issue, and we are having discussions on what to do about it. We are waiting for a review led by the Department of Health on prices and promotions; when it comes forward, we will take the appropriate action.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 479 c5, (corrigendum) 382;479 c5
Session: 2007-08
Oral question type: Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Notes: Daily part printing error: Member asking question incorrectly given as ““Lynne Jones (Birmingham, Selly Oak) (Lab)””. Deleted and ““Helen Jones (Warrington, North) (Lab)”” inserted.
Subjects: Crime Alcoholic drinks Prices Supermarkets Misuse
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk