Doubts raised over demand for pints of wine ahead of September launch

Pint-sized bottles of wine are expected to be allowed on UK shelves from September, a business minister has said, amid doubts over demand. Kevin Hollinrake said seven changes to pre-packaged wine sizes are due to come into force on September 19, as he insisted they will support the “thriving” UK wine sector by providing opportunities for “innovation and greater choice”. But the SNP’s Patrick Grady said the Government should admit there is “little to no demand or interest for this supposedly glorious Brexit benefit”. The Glasgow North MP went on to urge the Government to “admit that its Brexit dream of people quaffing pints of wine” was always a “fantasy”, adding: “In fact the reality is a Brexit nightmare of border checks, of reduced consumer choice and of business closures.” Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch replied: “I can’t imagine why anyone would be complaining about the sale of pints of wine. “If he doesn’t like it, he doesn’t have to buy it.” In December, the Government announced the move to introduce the 568ml size would sit alongside 200ml and 500ml measures already available. Pint bottles of Champagne were sold in the UK before Britain joined the European Common Market and were...

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