Representatives from more than 40 councils attended a conference hosted by Suffolk Police this week with a view to implementing a ban on “super-strength” products in their areas. At least 90 local authorities have already rolled out, or are considering, a Reducing the Strength campaign, despite warnings from the Office of Fair Trading that some could be illegal under competition law. Despite this, some authorities…

The Association of Convenience Stores has welcomed a commitment from Labour leader Ed Milliband to reverse a hike in small business rates due in April 2015 and to freeze the levy the following year. In his speech to the party’s annual conference, Milliband said he wanted Labour to be “the party of small business”. He accused the government of reducing the tax burden on large…

Lord Black of Brentwood will be the keynote speaker at the Wine & Spirit Trade Association’s annual conference this month. He is to speak about how the newspaper industry has adapted to meet consumer demand in a new, technological age, and will offer first-hand insight into the challenges of operating in an industry under imminent threat of new and significant regulation. Lord Black is executive…

The drinks industry was told to expect five more years of pain before growth speeds up by leading economists at the WSTA annual conference. While last year’s conference focused on health and the Responsibility Deal, with then health secretary Andrew Lansley the keynote speaker, this year it concentrated on business. Nick Hyde, chairman of the WSTA and of Diageo Wines Europe, said: “The current business…

The World Whiskies Conference will also take place during this week, on March 22 at the Waldorf Hilton. The Icons of Whisky & World Whiskies Awards will also take place on this day. Whisky Live is to take place at The Honourable Artillery Company, Armoury House. It will feature sampling, masterclasses and Cocktails Live – a new cocktail show. Visit whiskylive.com for more information.