A swift two-thirds

Pubs in Britain could soon offer two-thirds of a pint following proposals put forward by the National Weights and Measures Laboratory. The new system would follow the European system of drink sizes, and is being touted as female-friendly and an addition to consumer choice.

Third pint measures are already legal in the UK even though they are uncommon in pubs. However, the size is often used at beer festivals to allow drinkers to sample a wider range of ales.

A two-thirds measure already exists in Australia as a schooner. It was introduced there in response to a demand from drinkers who were concerned that their full pint was getting too warm in the sun. This is not such a pressing concern for Britain, but introducing more consumer choice is thought to be in people’s interests.

"It would only be a small change in the law, but a welcome one," said Neil Williams, communications manager for the British Beer & Pub Association. "We actually asked for it, as we think it gives customers more choice. A third has been a legal measure for a while, so why not two-thirds? For some drinks it could be the right choice."

It is thought that the measure would appeal to women, who regard a full pint as too much, and half a pint as too little. In addition to this, part of the proposals focus on speciality beers which have a higher alcohol strength and so drinking less than a pint could be more appropriate.

"Anything that adds to consumer choice and improves presentation is a good thing," continued Williams. "Wine has made tremendous strides with regards to its presentation, so why shouldn’t beer as well?"

However, the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) is not entirely convinced that the move is required. "We are not really aware of any consumer demand," said spokesman Jonathan Mail. "It could lead to confusion for bar staff and customers and it doesn’t really make sense. A half and two-thirds are too close to each other, and replacing the pint would prove very unpopular.

"It would also cause resentment if a customer is charged for a pint but only given two-thirds," he continued. "We are not wholly negative, and the move might have its place for speciality bars and specialist beers, but for the British pub in general, there is no evidence that it is wanted."

The proposed move would be separate to EU regulations that will relax rules on the sizes of pre-packaged goods from April next year. Some of the other proposals being considered by the NWML include allowing pubs and bars to serve wine measures of less than 75ml for tasting and sampling.

Beer has been served in pints in Britain since 1698 following an Act of Parliament.

The NWML consultation will run until January.

Alexis Hercules 29/10/08