Parliament: Public consumption of alcohol may soon be banned islandwide

SINGAPORE - Consumption of alcohol between 10.30pm and 7am in public areas may be banned if the proposition to tighten liquor control laws is implemented.

According to the Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Bill tabled in Parliament today, public places involve areas such as parks and HDB void decks.

The Bill also proposed a ban for retail shops to sell take-away liquor from 10.30pm. However, people will still be allowed to consume alcohol at home, approved events and in licensed shops like coffee shops, restaurants and bars between 10.30pm and 7am.

The proposed timing of 10.30pm is aligned with the business closing hours of HDB shops. The Ministry of Home Affairs said that the restriction will apply to all public places to prevent problems from shifting from one area to another.

Areas with higher risk of public disorder associated with excessive drinking will be designated as Liquor Control Zones. These zones will enforce stricter regulations on public drinking and the sale of alcohol on weekends and public holidays.

 The Bill also proposed that any drunken individual who is incapable of taking care of himself or herself in any public place will be guilty of an offence and may be fined up to $1,000 or imprisoned up to one month.

debwong@sph.com.sg