Pioneering UK alcohol policy reformer to speak in Canberra
The eminent and internationally respected alcohol policy reformer, Professor Sir Ian Gilmore, will next Monday address an audience of Australian public health advocates on the strengths and weaknesses of UK alcohol policies and the lessons for Australia.
Over the past decade, Sir Ian has been one of the most publicly prominent and influential medical professionals in the UK, and an active campaigner for alcohol policy reform. He is former President of the Royal College of Physicians, continues to be the Royal College’s adviser on alcohol, and is Chair of the UK Alcohol Health Alliance and the European Alcohol Health Forum Science Group. He is a Professor of Hepatology and leading UK specialist on liver disease, and was knighted in 2010 for his services to medicine.
In his presentation, Sir Ian will focus on the activities of the alcohol industry here and overseas to undermine public health efforts to curb irresponsible and unhealthy alcohol consumption in the community. He will also speak about the dangers of the way that alcohol is marketed, especially to children and young adults.
In both the UK and Australia, the alcohol industry has projected itself as seeking a partnership with governments, but has consistently opposed binding regulation and effective policy measures.
AMA President, Dr Steve Hambleton and AMA Executive Councillors will attend the presentation, which is being hosted by the AMA.
Dr Hambleton said that the AMA has repeatedly asked the Government to establish an Inquiry to examine the scope of alcohol marketing in Australia and the adequacy of existing self-regulation.
Professor Sir Ian Gilmore presentation:
Time: 11.30am – 1.30pm
Date: Monday, 18 February 2013
Venue: Senate Alcove, Parliament House, Canberra
Media are welcome to attend.
15 February 2013
CONTACT: John Flannery 02 6270 5477 / 0419 494 761
Kirsty Waterford 02 6270 5464 / 0427 209 753