Turkey’s Parliament on Friday passed a controversial law restricting the consumption and advertising of alcohol in the predominantly Muslim country, AFP reported. The law prohibits alcoholic beverage companies from sponsoring events and restricts the places where such drinks can be consumed. It also bans the sale of alcoholic drinks between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Supporters of the measure – introduced by the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) party, which has its roots in Islam – say the law is seeking to protect society, particularly children, from the harmful effects of alcohol. But critics see it as a sign of creeping conservatism in predominantly Muslim but staunchly secular Turkey and argue the legislation intrudes into private life. TV series, films or music videos are not allowed to contain images encouraging the consumption of alcohol under the new legislation. It also brings stricter penalties on drunken driving. Drivers with a blood alcohol content of more than 0.05% will be slapped with a TRY 700 (nearly €300) fine and their driving licenses will be confiscated for a six-month period.