Brewers Association funds alcohol policy research

The Brewers Association of Australia and New Zealand is funding a three-year research grant into the area of alcohol policy, in partnership with the University of Canterbury.

The funding will enable Dr Eric Crampton, a senior lecturer in economics in the College of Business and Law, to focus more of his time on alcohol policy analysis and research.

Dr Crampton has conducted research into the intersection of economics, voter knowledge and public policy, and has a particular interest in policy intended to mitigate the costs individuals may impose on others through the tax and public health system.

“This funding is an expression of the brewing industry’s support for Canterbury University and the revitalisation of the Canterbury region,” said Denita Wawn, CEO of the Brewers Association. “It will add to the voices in the public debate over alcohol and alcohol policy.

“The Brewers Association maintains our commitment to quality science and evidence-based measures in the development of alcohol policy and the importance of full academic freedom in pursuing research.”

“The University of Canterbury prides itself on producing research that is both academically rigorous and socially relevant,” said Professor Sonia Mazey, Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University of Canterbury.

“The university, Dr Crampton and the Brewers Association have ensured that the three-year grant to the university will provide Dr Crampton both the time to work on alcohol policy and the academic freedom necessary to make a substantive contribution.”