Thai Health Minister Blocks 24-Hour Hotel Alcohol Sales, Reviews Rail Plan

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Picture courtesy: Matichon

 

At the Ministry of Public Health, a significant meeting of the Alcohol Beverage Control Committee took place, chaired by Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin, Minister of Public Health.

 

The agenda focused on two key issues: the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages at train stations or on trains, and a proposal from the Thai Hotels Association to allow round-the-clock alcohol sales in hotels.

 

Mr. Somsak revealed that the State Railway of Thailand proposed selling alcoholic drinks in first and second-class sleeper cars, dining cars, and private charter services. However, the committee did not approve this proposal in its current form.

 

Mr. Somsak explained that more information was needed to address safety concerns, particularly regarding private charter services, where full privacy and no disturbances could potentially allow such sales.

 

Regarding the hotel proposal, the committee noted that the Hotel Act of 2004 already governs alcohol sales in hotels, leading to a decision against continuous 24-hour sales.

Instead, they provisionally allowed drinking in hotel rooms. A set of guidelines permitting 24/7 consumption in guests' rooms through in-room minibars is to be drafted, although legislation is required to enforce this.

 

Mr. Somsak highlighted a broader strategy for reinforcing alcohol regulation, tasking provincial committees with developing plans under the Alcohol Control Act of 2008.

 

This includes specifying no-sale zones, managing sale hours and age restrictions for purchasers, controlling advertising practices, and promoting sobriety campaigns like “No Drink Driving” during festivals.

 

When asked about the new legislative proposal for an Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, which increases business representation in the National Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee, Mr. Somsak acknowledged potential conflicts of interest.

 

Yet, he emphasised that legislative affairs are outside his direct influence, urging a careful approach once the bill returns to his domain.

 

Although faced with political pressures, Mr. Somsak showed restraint, as the Parliament remains adjourned until mid-December. Concentrating on immediate legislation for the Ministry of Public Health has been challenging, admitting to losing sleep over pending laws.

 

Finally, he remarked on the evolving cultural dynamics surrounding alcohol consumption, emphasising a need to listen to diverse public opinions, whether from critics or supporters, to navigate these complex societal issues, reported Matichon Online.

 

-- 2024-11-20

 

 

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Hotel Room Alcohol Service Extended 24/7 for New Year Period

 

FILE photo courtesy: Prachachat

 

For the upcoming New Year celebrations, hotels in Thailand will allow guests to order alcoholic drinks to their rooms from in-house bars and restaurants at any time, thanks to a temporary rule change approved by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board.

 

The decision, taken at a meeting led by Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, aims to balance convenience for guests with responsible consumption.

 

Typically, hotel guests can order alcohol to their rooms only until 10pm from restaurants and 2am from bars. However, the recently approved regulation permits round-the-clock service to rooms, aligning with the 24-hour access guests already have to in-room minibars.

 

Although hotels can serve alcohol during New Year's events with extended hours, this new policy is a special allowance, requested by the Thai Hotels Association (THA). It's designed to enhance guest experience during one of the peak tourist seasons.

Despite the relaxation for hotels, the board decided against lifting the alcohol ban on trains, a proposal put forth by the State Railways of Thailand (SRT).

 

Mr. Somsak expressed concerns about safety and crime risks associated with serving alcohol on trains, though there remains an openness to future discussions on allowing alcohol in specific train areas like first-class sleeper coaches or chartered sections.

 

This decision highlights the focus on preventing alcohol-related incidents. Drunk driving remains a significant issue during the holiday period, as evidenced by over 4,000 injuries from drink-driving accidents reported at the start of January.

 

Strengthened roadside checks and educational campaigns on the dangers of drunk driving are part of the board's broader strategy to ensure safety.

 

Hospitals and local authorities have been tasked with implementing prevention measures and working closely with communities to curb drink-driving.

 

Public awareness campaigns will begin pre-festivities and continue throughout, with a review of their impact afterwards.

 

This comprehensive approach underscores the importance of encouraging responsible alcohol consumption while still offering hospitality services that cater to tourists and locals celebrating the festive season, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2024-11-20