New moves forcing pubs and restaurants to show the prices of soft drinks more clearly were unveiled by Consumer Minister Gerry Sutcliffe today.

The initiative follows complaints from customers who have been hit by expensive soft drinks without being able to see the price before they buy them.

DTI research has shown pubs and restaurants displaying the prices of soft drinks charge less on average than outlets that don't display prices.

Pubs and bars will have to show a range of soft drink prices so customers can see them before they are served. Restaurants will also have to show prices with their menu near the entrance so people know what their bill will be before they go inside.

The new laws will come into effect next March giving traders time to prepare for the new system.

Mr Sutcliffe said: "This will mean there are no nasty surprises when people buy a soft drink in a pub or restaurant.

"People are entitled to know how much they are paying before they order. That's not too much to ask.

"We have received complaints about the lack of pricing transparency, so we have taken action."

Friday October 31, 2003