17 November 2004

Hon Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader

Binge drinking culture change only one part of the answer

"A culture change programme to eradicate binge drinking, as outlined by the Associate Minister of Health Damien O’Connor, is needed but is not enough," Progressive Deputy Leader Matt Robson said today.

"Reduction of risky and binge drinking, to be effective, must include raising the drinking age to 20 years and controls on liquor advertising. My member’s bill provides both,” said Matt Robson.

"Legislation and enforcement of compulsory breath testing has been a fundamental part of the package that reduced drink driving accidents. Media campaigns were not enough on their own to prevent drink driving.

"The Progressive policy to lift the drinking age is based on international evidence that this has reduced harm caused to young people.

"To change the culture and protect young people from alcohol abuse cannot be done without legislation to lift the drinking age," Matt Robson said.

ENDS

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