VANCOUVER – British Columbia’s parliamentary secretary for liquor reform has recommended that the provincial government allow liquor sales in grocery stores, the Vancouver Sun reports.

John Yap provided the recommendation in a report to Justice Minister Suzanne Anton, responding to what he said was strong public interest.

"Liquor sales in grocery stores received considerably more attention and interest and support than any other topic during the course of the liquor review," he said.

"The final tally — including all blog posts, all e-mails, all tweets — amounted to 75% generally in favor of the idea. … This is something I feel we just cannot ignore. Because it is so clearly at the top of so many British Columbians' wish list, I have recommended B.C. allow liquor sales in grocery stores."

The proposal applies only to grocery stores and would include the sale of liquor, beer, wine and spirits. Convenience stores are excluded from the recommendation.

Yap said he supports establishing private areas inside grocery stores to sell alcohol, an effort to prevent minors from gaining access.

Private liquor store operators have called the move unnecessary because many liquor outlets are already located next to grocery stores.

"There are very few places around the province you will not find a liquor store already located within 100 meters of a grocery store, and having a separate liquor checkout inside a grocery store will not improve convenience," said Ian Baillie, executive director of the Alliance of Beverage Licensees.

Legislation is expected to be table next spring.