New curbs needed on cheap drinks in university bars, says NUS

by DrinkNetwork

Published on Thu Apr 2 17:38:47 2009

All student unions should impose minimum prices on alcohol amid escalating fears of binge drinking among undergraduates, it is claimed.

The National Union of Students said "three for the price of one" deals were encouraging young people to drink to dangerous levels.

Union bars have traditionally been the among the cheapest places for students to drink.

Many offer cut-price and subsidised alcohol - often as low as £1 for a pint of lager or bitter - to NUS card holders.

One event in Sheffield for undergraduates last year advertised double measures of spirits for 50p.

But the NUS said that it would lobby for restrictions at student bars.

At the final day of the union's annual conference in Blackpool, members backed proposals for a recommended minimum price. It will formally consult with students across the country before setting the limit.

Wes Streeting, NUS president, said: "Students' unions work hard to inform their members of the dangers of excessive drinking. But more can be done. 'All you can drink' and 'three for the price of one' offers encourage students to drink to dangerous levels, and should have no place in our students' union bars."

He said the union would work with its commercial arm - NUS Services - to recommend a minimum price on alcohol. Although it would not be legally binding, it is hoped most bars would follow the recommendation.

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