Beer and cider

Draft beer and cider can only be served in quantities of one third of a pint, half a pint or multiples of half a pint. These restrictions do not apply where it is sold as a mixture of two or more liquids e.g. a pint of shandy does not have to have exactly half a pint of beer in it.

Draft beer and cider can only be served in government stamped brim measure glass unless dispensed through a meter or other measuring instrument stamped in accordance with the Measuring Instrument (Intoxicating Liquor) Regulations 1983. The Brewer's Society have issued guidelines that a pint with a head should contain a minimum of 95 per cent liquid. If line measure glasses are used then the liquid must reach the line.

Spirits

Gin, rum, vodka and whisky may be sold for consumption on the premises only in quantities of 25ml or multiples of these amounts. A notice must be displayed in a conspicuous position of all bars in the quantities the above spirits are sold .

The above requirements do not apply where the liquor in question forms a constituent of a mixture of three or more liquids, e.g. a cocktail. Note however that ice does not count as one of the constituents.

Wine

Where wine is sold in an open vessel such as a carafe, it must be in either 25cl, 50cl, 75cl or one litre. Wine by the glass can only be sold in quantities of 125ml, 175ml or multiples thereof. The wine can be measured using a government stamped glass or other receptacle such as a thimble. A notice or statement must be displayed indicating the quantities in which the wine is sold on those premises.

What is the penalty for non-compliance?

A trader found guilty of committing an offence under the above legislation faces of penalty of a fine of up to £5 000 for summary conviction.