First report on infringements of Portman Group code released. Some were referred to the National Association of Cider Makers and two were deferred to the next round. Alcohol Concern had sought a rise of 48p a bottle to put alcopops beyond the reach of most young people. Splooch, a home-brew alcohol kit, marketed. The producers, Continental Wine Exports, agree to redesign packaging, adding stickers warning that it is not to be sold to under-18s.
General conclusion is that teenager's report drinking all the new kinds of drink.
Alcopops are particularly popular, especially with female drinkers, occasional drinkers and 15-17 year olds. Portman Group also announces plans to set up an independent panel to monitor their code. Portman Group changes their panel to include independent personnel, but retain administration of the scheme. Chaired by Laurence Shurman, former banking ombudsman, it also includes a head teacher, and the chair of the Advertising Association. Alcohol Concern welcomes its establishment and will re-submit some complaints previously rejected.