To ask the Scottish Executive whether proposals for the prevention of the display of promotional materials in licensed premises will include window displays by specialist whisky shops.

The Scottish Government has made clear that it is not anti-alcohol and we are proud of our distillers and the premium products they make. However, Scotland’s relationship with alcohol is out of kilter and we need to rebalance it.

Issues concerning the promotion of alcohol and potential measures under the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005 are being considered in light of the responses to the Scottish Government’s consultation Changing Scotland’s Relationship with Alcohol, but we are clear that we do not intend to ban promotions that explain the method of production, history and heritage of Scotland’s quality products. We have already given the Scotch Whisky Association an assurance that we will discuss these matters with them before proposing any regulatory action to end the irresponsible promotion of alcohol. We have also made clear that there is no question that distilleries will be prevented from offering drams as part of a distillery tour.

The Scottish Government will announce it’s response to the consultation early in 2009.