Alcohol restrictions common in other countries
SINGAPORE – While Singapore seeks public views on proposed measures to restrict the sale and drinking of alcohol, some countries already have such laws in place.
In Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States, no-alcohol zones are commonplace.
In the state of South Australia, for instance, the consumption and possession of alcohol is banned in specified public areas.
These “dry areas” include main shopping precincts and carparks, and a person who flouts the 1997 law can be fined up to A$1,250 (S$1,434), said the website of the Office of the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner.
Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs said on Monday that Australian rules on the sale of liquor are strict.
Some states allow it only up to 10pm, said its statement.
In England and Wales, the local authorities can impose restrictions on public drinking in areas where alcohol-related disorder or nuisance are a problem.
In these places that are under Designated Public Place Orders, police officers have discretionary powers to stop people from drinking alcohol in public, according to their 2001 Criminal Justice and Police Act.
In Scotland, the city of Glasgow has a 10pm curfew for outside drinking at venues in residential properties.
As for the US, legislations that govern the manufacture, sale and use of alcohol are established by federal, state and local governments.
Local jurisdictions can choose how they want to prohibit the sale of alcohol in a “dry county” or a “dry town”.
In Mississippi, for example, clubs or caterers can sell alcoholic beverages at permitted locations between 10am and midnight. However, no sale or delivery of such beverages can be made to any person on Sundays.
PROPOSED MOVES
ALCOHOL-FREE ZONES
Permanent ban on alcohol at public places such as HDB void decks and playgrounds.
Temporary ban at public places where groups tend to gather and drink, such as Read Bridge which spans the Singapore River and common spaces around nightspots in Robertson Quay.
Feedback: If you agree, name the areas or places that should be temporary or permanent alcohol-free zones.
SHORTER SALE HOURS
Cut down the time for selling alcohol at retail outlets such as convenience stores and supermarkets to reduce easy access to cheap alcohol.
Source: The Straits Times
Published: 28 Nov 2013
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