Wrong approach

THE Royal College of Physicians wants a reduction in the number of off-licences, a ban on alcohol promotions, set prices and a register of establishments selling alcohol.

These and other proposals are all negative. A reduction in off-licences, for example, would result in job losses across the industry and would not necessarily reduce consumption.

Surely a positive approach would be more effective. If we were to educate our children from a young age on the consequences of alcohol abuse, then as a nation we might eventually change our attitude towards alcohol and our social lives need no longer revolve around it.