Wine and Spirit Trade Association Comment on ONS Alcohol Figures

Commenting on the latest statistical bulletin on alcohol from the Information Centre for Health and Social Care, Wine and Spirit Trade Association Chief Executive, Jeremy Beadles said: "Today’s Government figures confirm the continued fall in overall alcohol consumption in the UK and show that awareness of alcohol units has increased significantly since 1997.”

“While we should be concerned by the rise in alcohol related-deaths, it’s clear Government efforts to combat alcohol misuse should continue to be focused on the minority of people who drink excessively, not the vast majority who enjoy a drink in moderation.”

-In 2008, (the latest available figures) 72 percent of men reported drinking within the Government guidelines (21 units in an average week). For women, 80 percent reported drinking within the Government guidelines (14 units) in an average week. (Table 2.5)

-In 2008, the average weekly alcohol consumption in England was 16.8 units for men and 8.6 units for women. This is below Government guidelines. (Pg. 7)

-18 percent of school pupils aged 11 to 15 reported drinking alcohol in the week prior to interview; this figure is lower than 2001, when 26 percent of pupils reported drinking in the last week. (Pg. 7)

-There has been an increase from 54 percent in 1997 to 75 percent in 2009 in the proportion of people who had heard of daily drinking limits (Pg.7)

-6 percent of men and 2 percent of women are classified as harmful drinkers. This is defined as is defined as a pattern of drinking which is likely to cause physical or psychological harm. (Pg. 8)

The WSTA is the UK lobbying organisation for the wine and spirit industry representing over 320 companies producing, importing, transporting and selling wines and spirits. We campaign to promote the industry’s interests with governments at home and abroad and work with our members to promote the responsible production, marketing and sale of alcohol. (Just Drinks)