Drinking at 18 is socially acceptable, says DA, as it opposes proposed new law
The government’s liquor policy and draft Liquor Amendment Bill should focus more on enforcement than raising the legal age for alcohol consumption and restricting the issuance of trading licences, the DA said on Tuesday. This follows the Department of Trade and Industry’s release of a draft bill for public comment. DA MP Dean Macpherson has asked Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies to extend the November 15 deadline for public comment on the bill by 30 days to give people more time. "There is significant public interest in this bill, with a number of moral, constitutional and economic problems that need further consideration," he said. It proposes to raise the legal age of drinking to 21 years from 18, and to make the supplier of drink to an already inebriated person liable for any subsequent damage or injury. The bill also aims to restrict the opening of liquor retail outlets in the proximity of residential areas and other community facilities. In addition, liquor advertising di...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.