Humza Yousaf has scrapped a consultation on banning alcohol advertising as part of a “reset” with business.
The new First Minister said his officials would take the plan back to the “drawing” board” and bring forward new proposals.
The original plans, which the previous Sturgeon Government consulted on, were heavily criticised by business.
In a statement to MSPs, Yousaf said:
“The aim of this consultation - to reduce the harm caused by alcohol to children – is admirable. I support it wholeheartedly.
"But it is clear that some of the proposals have caused real concern to an industry which is already facing challenges on multiple fronts.
“I have therefore instructed my officials to take these ideas back to the drawing board, and to work with the industry, and with public health stakeholders, to agree a new set of proposals.
“I believe that all of us want to reduce the harm caused by alcohol, particularly to young people - but without undermining Scotland’s world class drinks industry or tourism sector. I am hopeful that by taking a fresh look at this issue, we can find a way forward which achieves both of those aims.”
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