BANGKOK, Nov. 14 -- Thailand's National Alcohol Policy Committee has agreed in principle to lift the ban on alcohol sales between 2pm and 5pm.

According to the Bangkok Post, the move is aimed at boosting consumer spending during major holiday periods.

The paper also reported yesterday that the proposal will be opened to a 15-day public consultation before taking effect, and will not require cabinet approval.

"The afternoon sales ban was introduced long ago to prevent civil servants from drinking during office hours. But that era is over - government officials no longer drink in the afternoon. Today, officials do not go out drinking during working hours, so the ban should be lifted," Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Zarum was quoted as sayi...