When it becomes law it will impose a total ban on alcohol ads and raise the minimum age for buyers to 20 years from the current 18.

There was heated debate in the NLA ahead of the vote that saw the legislation passed in principle by 98 votes to 34 with five abstentions. The NLA set up a 31-member ad-hoc panel to scrutinise the bill ahead of the second reading in 15 days.

The Public Health Ministry proposed the bill amid strong opposition from alcohol manufacturers and distributors. But some assembly members are against the bill because it fails to tackle root problems relating to drinking.

"The ban on advertising won't help solve or reduce social problems arising from alcohol consumption. What really matters is how people are inculcated," Somkiat Onwimon said at the sitting.

He said it was better if authorities cracked down on cheap strong liquor because such drinks led to social problems. The bill looks set to affect only expensive drinks that rely on advertising.

Ammar Siamwalla supported the bill in principle. However, he believed the Public Health Ministry failed to consider other control measures such as sin taxes.

"I am concerned that some brewers and distillers will be able to slash prices when they no longer have to pay for advertising," he said.

Kamnoon Sittisamarn agreed with the bill in principle but pointed out it contained loopholes.

Health Minister Mongkol na Songkhla said the legislation was needed because alcohol consumption caused health and family problems, accidents and crime. He agreed to consider tax moves also.

Prapasri Osathanon

The Nation