The Government's liquor law bill passed its first reading in Parliament today amid strident criticism from opposition MPs who said it would do little to curb binge drinking or reduce the harm alcohol caused.
The Alcohol Reform Bill will enact previously-announced proposals, a raft of law changes affecting the sale and supply of liquor.
It gives local authorities strong powers to decide their own licencing regimes, proposes splitting the purchase age to 18 for bars and 20 for supermarkets and liquor stores, puts restrictions on the supply of liquor to minors and extends the description of public places where drinking can be banned.
Justice Minister Simon Power said risky drinking was becoming increasingly normalised in New Zealand, especially among young people.
"The Government is not going to stand by and allow excessive and harmful alcohol consumption to become further ingrained into our culture," he said.
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