Turkey Parliament Passes Anti-alcohol Bill
Measure to curb consumption and advertising seen by critics as sign of government's increasing conservative policies.

Related »

Turkey to Restrict Sale and Advertising of Alcohol
THE DAILY TELEGRAPH: Turkey is to restrict the sale and advertising of alcohol, prompting outcry from citizens concerned about the creeping Islamisation of the country.

Members of Turkey's Islamist-leaning government, led by Recep Tayyip Erdogan, have approved legislation, which is awaiting presidential approval, which will see the sale of alcohol in shops prohibited from 10pm to 6am.

Although similar restrictions are in place in some European countries, including Britain, the legislation also bans the advertising of alcohol. Broadcasters will even need to blur out bottles and glasses of alcohol consumed by TV characters.

Alcoholic beverage companies will also not be allowed to sponsor events where their drinks can be sold, such as concerts or football matches. New liquor licenses will not be issued to establishments within 330 feet (100 metres) of a school or religious institution.

The manager of one liquor shop in Istanbul's central Beyoglu district, famed for its boozy nightlife, called the ban "Islamic fascism."

If the restrictions are enforced, posters on the front of his shop advertising Chilean wine and European beer will need to come down, » | Justin Vela, Istanbul | Friday, May 24, 2013