Pressure mounts to ban TV alcohol ads

PRESSURE on the Government to reconsider its opposition to a total ban on TV advertising of alcohol could grow following a landmark judgment by the European Court of Justice.

The Luxembourg-based court ruled yesterday that a ban in France which prohibits the transmission of sporting events containing alcohol advertising was compatible with EU law.

“Such a ban constitutes a restriction on the freedom to provide services, but is justified by the aim of protecting public health,” said the court.