28 November 2012
Government targets multi-buys to reduce alcohol abuse.The government is to propose a minimum price of 45p per unit for the sale of alcohol in England and Wales and a ban on multi-buy discounts in a bid to tackle excessive drinking.
Following mounting pressure to follow Scotland’s minimum price proposal of 50p per unit, the Home Office has launched a 10 week consultation, believing the new plans will reduce alcohol related health conditions and drink induced crime. The minimum cost for a can of strong lager would become £1.56 and £4.22 for a bottle of wine, diminishing heavily discounted cut price promotions offered by shops and supermarkets.
Research conducted by Sheffield University, on behalf of the government, indicated a 45p minimum would reduce alcohol consumption by 4.3%. The studies predicted a reduction in death rates and 66,000 fewer hospital admissions after 10 years, with the number of related crimes lowered by 24,000 per year.
The government’s strategy is expected to face opposition from the industry following challenges to the Scottish proposal, due to start April 2013. The Scotch Whisky Association and the European Spirits Organisation consider the proposal to contradiction the EU’s general principles of free trade and undistorted competition.
Miles Beale, chief executive of the Wine and Spirit Trade Association, stated there was "no evidence" minimum alcohol pricing would be effective in tackling alcohol misuse.