It has been reported that Wales’ authorities might get a control over the minimum pricing of alcohol, advertising and licensing hours, as the ministers of the country are planning to supervise the rules associated with alcohol sales.

This has come up after Welsh Assembly Government confirmed that Health Minister Edwina Hart wishes to ‘take control and take action’ over alcohol. The cabinet colleagues are now being requested by her to ask the UK Government to introduce the Licensing Act 2003 in Wales. Mrs. Hart added that if the UK Government does not do this, then she’ll herself seek powers to act over alcohol.

There is a ‘substantial impact on health’ in Wales due to alcohol, reported Public Health Wales. This is because young people and children are driving really fast towards consuming alcohol, which is raising a ‘particular concern’ in the Government. Statistics say 23% of boys and 20% of girls consume alcohol at least once a week.

Spokesperson of Welsh Assembly Government said, “Health Minister Edwina Hart welcomes the UK government's indication that it is going to take action on these issues, but believes it is now time for Wales to take control and take action in this area”.

With this, there can be individual licensing regimes to be operated in England and in Wales. Also, the SNP has welcomed this move, who wants the same kind of powers to be devolved in Scotland.