Swindon link is reporting on a survey conducted by Swindon Borough Council’s Trading Standards team revealed that some pubs and bars in the borough are serving short measures of alcohol. During inspections of ten venues, officers found that 70 per cent of drinks purchased were below the legally prescribed quantities under The Weights and Measures (Intoxicating Liquor) Order 1988.
Specifically, 60 per cent of medium glasses of white wine (175ml) and 80 per cent of vodka shots (25ml) were short measures. Wine deficiencies ranged from 5ml to 25ml, with the largest being 14.3 per cent below the required amount. Six of the vodka shots were over 0.7ml short of the legal measure.
Two venues were found using illegal, unstamped glasses for measuring alcohol and were instructed to stop immediately. All inspected establishments received verbal guidance during the visits and will be provided with written follow-up advice.
If you suspect that your drink is a short measure, you have the right to request an immediate top-up from the bar staff. Should the staff refuse or react negatively to your request for a top-up, you can report the incident to your local Trading Standards office. They are responsible for investigating such complaints and ensuring that establishments comply with legal standards.
It is also helpful to be informed about the legal measures for common drinks. For instance, a pint of beer, a 175ml medium glass of wine, or a 25ml shot of spirits are standard measures that bars and pubs are required to serve. If you notice the venue using unstamped glasses or any other suspicious measuring equipment, it may indicate non-compliance with the law. Such observations can also be reported to Trading Standards.
