And the launch this month of a TV commercial, highlighting the effects of alcohol-related violence. Both the review and the consultation will play a crucial part in the creation of Scotland's first national Action Plan on Alcohol Misuse, which will be launched by the Executive at the end of next year. The advert will provide further support for the national 'Safer Scotland' police campaign. However, there are worrying trends in excessive and irresponsible drinking, particularly among young people, but certainly not confined to that group. This problem not only affects the individuals concerned but society as a whole.
Action is needed on a range of levels to help change the culture surrounding alcohol misuse.
We at the Scottish Executive recognise that we do not have all the answers. That is why we want to involve all interested parties - individuals, parents and families, the drinks industry and license trade, the Scottish Parliament, employers, the NHS, local authorities, voluntary groups and the police, in producing our National Action Plan on Alcohol Misuse, at the end of next year. This will involve bringing together all the good work which is currently taking place, and a range of new ideas and initiatives, to produce a comprehensive plan which will act as a framework for action at a local and national level. The current laws have generally stood the test of time and are not systematically failing but I believe time has now come for a full and comprehensive review. The industry could ensure that they and their staff are adequately trained on alcohol misuse issues and the Server Intervention Project for Scotland, funded by the Health Department, is valuable in this process.