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Minimum pricing proposed for alcohol in Scotland
The Scottish Government unveiled plans yesterday to introduce minimum pricing for alcohol in the off-trade, a ban on the sale of alcohol to under 21s in shops and a separate checkout for alcohol in stores. The suggested measures formed part of a pre-legislative consultation document to tackle alcohol abuse north of the border, but have attracted widespread criticism.
In particular, 35 pence per unit of alcohol was proposed as a minimum price for drinks sold in the Scottish off-trade, forcing up the price of entry-level wine, spirits and lager brands. The Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) was quick to react, warning that the proposals will put up prices for millions of responsible drinkers without addressing the root causes of Scotland’s drinking culture.
Responding to the consultation paper entitled Changing Scotland’s Relationship with Alcohol, WSTA chief executive Jeremy Beadles said: “At a time when family budgets are under pressure from rising energy and food costs, consumers will wonder why politicians want to increase their misery.” As for the ban on sales of alcohol to under 21s, he added, "We should be treating 18 year olds like adults if we expect them to act like adults. If they can serve in the military, pay taxes, hold a job and vote then they should be able to buy and have a drink."
The Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC) described the proposals as ill-thought-out, and a reflex reaction not based on evidence. SRC director Fiona Moriarty said: “We are fully committed to playing our part in tackling alcohol misuse, it is in no one’s interests to encourage abuse, but it is only a small minority of Scots who have an unhealthy relationship with alcohol. Draconian legislation will not change that but it will penalise the overwhelming majority of customers who consume alcohol perfectly responsibly.
“Why shouldn’t responsible Scottish customers be able to benefit from competitively priced products as other UK citizens can?
“Irresponsible drinking is not simply a result of price or availability. Scotland’s relationship with alcohol is deep rooted and complex. It needs measures that tackle all aspects of consumption and supply.”
Patrick Schmitt 18/06/08