THE BRITISH PINT IS SAVED!

2 February 2006

The British Retail Consortium (BRC) is praising the work of UK MEPs who have worked to secure the future of the pint following concerns over the unintended consequences of a European directive.

Over the past three years, the EC has allowed for national variations amongst EU member states, however, it was calling on all 25 member states to provide certain pre-packed products in specified quantities.

The vote held in Brussels today saw the amendments allowing for national variations to continue with almost unanimous support for the position put by UK MEPs.

BRC Director of Food & Consumer Policy, Andrew Opie, says:  “We have been following this issue for some time now and would like to thank UK MEPs who have supported our calls to continue producing and purchasing milk in pints. 

“Feedback from consumers and retailers has shown that they are happy with the status quo and we are pleased that today’s vote has been amended in our favour.”

The issue has received wide support from organisations such as Dairy UK, MPs around the UK and from many members of the public.

Under the EU decision making process, the issue will now pass to national governments for debate.  The BRC will continue to put the needs of consumers to the UK government as they seek a compromise with their EU colleagues.