Reform the Reform Bill!

One of the last-minute priorities before I go into surgery in a couple of weeks is finalising a submission to the Parlimentary Select Committee on the Alcohol Reform Bill.

I think they should change the name. This Bill will reform nothing, certainly not the unreformed drinking habits of our people. I am urging ten or so changes that are urgently needed if the Bill is to make much difference. You can see my submission on my home pages. But the important thing is, write your own. The government will have to listen to the voice of the people if it is loud enough. At the end of the day it is people who elect Parliament.

Here’s how you can make your contribution. Send a letter or postcard with wording something like this:

I support an end to -
 Ultra cheap alcohol, beginning with a standard price for a standard drink
 Highly visible alcohol, by restoring supermarkets to alcohol-free
 All alcohol advertising and sponsorship except objective product information
 Legal drunk driving, by reducing the adult blood alcohol level to at least .05

Send your submission post-free to:
Select Committee on Alcohol Reform,
Private Bag 18888, Parliament Buildings, Wellington