Alcoholic beverages will not be taxed more in Switzerland, but new restrictions on sales will be implemented under new legislation put forward by the cabinet.

The government has dropped an earlier idea to push up prices to help lower consumption, citing potential legal difficulties and stating that it now considers the measure disproportionate.

Retail sales would be banned between 10pm and 6am, while bars would no longer be allowed to have so-called “happy hours” or offer unlimited drinks during that time.

The nighttime ban aims to protect young drinkers from alcohol abuse. Bars and restaurants will also have to offer three non-alcoholic drinks at lower prices than the cheapest alcoholic one on sale.

The legal drinking age in Switzerland is 16 for beer and wine and 18 for spirits.

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