Alcohol advertising may be completely or partially banned in the UK, according to an alleged leak from the Department of Health & Social Care.

The NHS 10-year health plan is set to be officially released next week; however, Sky News reported that a potential alcohol advertising ban is included in the draft.

The new development may have consequences for the entire alcohol industry. The 2003 ban on tobacco advertising caused major changes for retailers and consumers. However, the advertising ban has not been officially confirmed.

As part of the proposed regulations, restrictions may be adjusted to limit alcohol advertising at certain times and impose stricter rules on online and social media advertisements.

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Previously proposed plans included minimum unit pricing for alcohol, a scheme already imposed in Scotland. However, this policy is not understood to be included in the draft. Last year, Scotland raised its minimum alcohol price by 30% to deal with problem drinking.

Additional changes, including time restrictions on licensing hours for retailers, were not included in the leaked document.

Despite the sale of and demand for low and zero alcohol beers rising, there is still concern from health organisations and the government around the rising amount of alcohol harm.

The UK recently delayed its law for tighter restrictions around advertising high in fat, salt and sugar to 2026 after increasing pressure from food and media brands.