East Lothian Trading Standards Officers are leading a nationwide drive to test if spirit measures sold in pubs and hotels provide a fair deal for consumers.

Sample purchases will be made this month in bars throughout Scotland to provide a snapshot of whether liquor measures served to customers are up to scratch or a bit short.

It is against the law for any licensed premises to provide quantities less than that stated on the notice they must display in the bar. Most pubs sell spirits (gin, rum, whisky and vodka) in 25 ml quantities while some choose 35 ml.

Councillor Paul McLennan, Council's Environment spokesman said: “I hope that members of the public and the licensed trade will welcome this project as it is in everyone's interest to see that spirits are measured accurately especially when there are so many visitors to our pubs and restaurants who quite rightly expect to get what they pay for.”

Derek Gray, Council's Principal Trading Standards Officer, who is leading the project added: “This is an important project which protects consumers and also educates businesses as to their legal obligations.”

The project is being organised by the Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland which represents officers in all 32 local authorities.

ENDS

Issued by Rob Sinclair, Corporate Communications, 7 August, 2008
T. 01620 827741 M. 07887675547 email rsinclair@eastlothian.gov.uk