I was disappointed to learn that the two main vintners' organisations withdrew their support from the mature enjoyment of alcohol initiative promoting the responsible consumption of alcohol at a time when public concern over excessive alcohol consumption remains high. I do not need to remind the Minister that a large number of public order offences are caused by excessive alcohol consumption. The vintners and publicans need to be reminded that compliance with the licensing laws is not optional. It is important that the alcohol industry meet its responsibility and accept there is a problem with alcoholism.

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