HOLMES Chapel MP Fiona Bruce has welcomed new government pledges to tackle Britain’s binge-drinking culture.

Included in the ‘responsibility deal’ pledges is an end to sales of super strength drinks in cans and more responsible display and promotion in shops and bars.

Mrs Bruce, who is vice chair or the All Parliamentary Group on Alcohol Concern, said the move was excellent news.

“Heavy and binge drinking has become virtually normalised in our culture and these measures will go some way to encouraging moderation,” she added.

“This manifesto is not designed to end or curtail people’s enjoyment of alcohol – many people enjoy alcohol responsibility and in moderation.

“Instead it sets out some of the key points that the All Party Group believe should form the foundation of a future government’s Alcohol Strategy and deal with the type of alcohol misuse which puts a strain on our public services and ends lives all too prematurely.”