Happy hour is to be consigned to the dustbin in Scotland as part of the country’s new licensing bill.

In a bid to tackle Scotland’s heavy drinking culture, the bill bans any change in alcohol prices over a 48-hour period, signalling the end of happy-hour style promotions.

The licensing bill, which was published yesterday but does not become law until 2007, also outlaws drink promotions that target the under 18s.

Licensing administrators in Scotland will gain greater powers, which allow them to immediately suspend licenses if operators break the rules.

Helping enforce the new regime will be a team of licensing standards officers, who will patrol the country’s pubs and clubs to ensure the laws are being upheld.

The new bill also ends standard opening hours, but prevents 24-hour opening. This should counter accusations that the changes are fuelling binge drinking.

The existing system of seven licences is to be replaced with two - a personal and premises license.

Scotland’s health minister Andy Kerr said: “These legislative proposals will contribute to the range of work we’re doing to reduce harmful drinking.

“Attitudes won’t change overnight, but the proposed measures, particularly those aimed at underage drinking and binge drinking generally, will make enormous contribution to tackling the problem.”

by Chris Druce

Buy this week's Caterer magazine for more industry news and analysis