Brussels, 16 February 2009

Procedure: Co-decision Documents: Meeting documents/ Oeil

The European Parliament overwhelmingly backed plans in Strasbourg to establish a system to enforce penalties against drivers who commit an offence in another EU Member State (594 votes in favour, 35 against and 40 abstentions).

In a context where there is an increasing political will to act at European level to reduce health inequalities between and within the EU countries, the European Commission has announced a communication on reducing health inequalities in the EU in its work programme for 2009. In order to prepare this Communication the Commission is consulting relevant stakeholders and has invited Eurocare and its members to send contributions.

Anderson P, de Brujin A, Angus K, Gordon R, and Hastings G (2009) "The impact of alcohol advertising and Media Exposure on Adolescent Alcohol Use: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies", Alcohol and Alcoholism (in press).

Abstract: Aims: To assess the impact of alcohol advertising and media exposure on the future adolescent alcohol use.

16 February 2009. One in five accidental or sudden deaths claims paid last year by the Irish finance and insurance Company, Irish Life, involved alcohol in some shape or form.

Anheuser-Busch inBev is hosting a Conference next March in Brussels to discuss how the social norms theory has been used to develop and implement programmes to promote responsible drinking among populations at risk.

SOPLICA, a Polish vodka manufacturer, has launched an on-line petition to request EU legislators to introduce a new law requiring European car manufacturers to install breathalyzers in new cars. For further information visit www.alkocasco.pl

WELSH rugby's latest method of tackling a problem posed by French advertising laws has been unveiled. Legislation prohibiting alcohol companies from advertising during sports events in France will once again prevent the Welsh team's sponsor. Cardiff-based brewer Brains, from displaying its logo on players' jerseys during the Six Nations match in Paris on Friday, February 27. To side-step the issue, the usual Brains logo will this year be replaced by the words "Try Essai" on players' shirts during the French match.

From late February till early May, the WHO will hold consultations with the Member States of the six WHO regions.

The reports from the round table meetings the WHO has held with NGOs and health professionals (24-25 November) and economic operators (6 November) can be now downloaded by clicking here.