Mandatory code looks set for major delay

The government looks set to delay the introduction of its controversial mandatory code of practice until after April 2011, according to reports this morning.

The welcome news for the trade has come after it emerged that Peter Mandelson has ordered a Cabinet-wide clear-out of "anti-business" measures in the face of the recession.

The code, designed to crackdown on irresponsible promotions and tackle alcohol-related problems, has been hugely unpopular as its untargeted approach would have cost the trade thousands.

In a letter by Mandelson, seen by The Times​, sent to other members of a Cabinet sub-committee, he wrote: "I support the approach that where measures appear without a planned implementation date — and on the assumption they are not planned for the near future — we commit to not imposing these measures until after April 2011."

He singles out the "mandatory code on alcohol" as a particular candidate for delay.

A Home Office spokesman admitted there was no implementation date for the new code.

But he added that he didn't think the code was a candidate for delay and there was still a "clear case" for the laws.

"The aim of the mandatory code is to crack down on the minority of businesses whose irresponsible promotions fuel the excessive drinking that can lead people into criminal or anti-social behaviour," he said.

"We have consulted widely with the industry and others about these important changes and are currently considering their responses, before we announce when and how the code will be introduced."

The British Beer & Pub Association has welcomed the news. Communications director Mark Hastings said: "We are very pleased the government has listened and responded to our compelling arguments on this unnecessary and disproportionate legislation - and recognised the damage that it would do to Britain's pubs.

"This is in no small measure due to the active and intensive lobbying we have pursued - and particular thanks are due to the thousands of people who responded to the government through our Axe the Beer Tax/Save the Pub website, which I am sure made a real difference to the campaign.

"While the code is now shelved, we have made clear to government we would continue to support specific targeted action on irresponsible promotions. This could still be achieved, through a straightforward measure that doesn't drown Britain's pubs in costly red tape."

A spokesman for the Wine and Spirit Trade Association said: "Delay would be good news for the trade. Abandonment would be better.

"We've always been clear that now is not the time to be adding another raft of rules and regulations particularly when police and enforcement agencies have made clear during consultation that they believe they already have the powers they need to clampdown on irresponsible promotions and anti-social behaviour."