23 March 2012
Cautious welcome for Government action on alcohol pricing
A coalition of national Churches and charities has welcomed
reports that the Government plans to enforce a minimum unit price
on alcohol sales. But the groups warn that a long delay on
implementation could cost lives.
The groups wrote to the Prime Minister back in February asking him
to introduce a minimum unit price, and have made a range of
resources on the issues available as part of their Measure for
Measure campaign.
Prime Minister David Cameron is proposing to introduce a minimum
price of 40 pence per unit on all alcohol sold in England and
Wales. However, the exact details and time frame for implementation
remain unclear.
"We are delighted that the Government is resisting pressure from
the drinks industry to take the action that is needed," said Ruth
Pickles, Vice President of the Methodist Conference, and a former
alcohol misuse counsellor. "This move will save not only money, but
lives."
Studies conducted at
Sheffield University indicate that introducing a minimum unit
price will have a dramatic affect on problem drinking, with only a
minimal impact on moderate drinkers. The researchers estimate that
over ten years a 40 pence minimum unit price will save the nation
£546 million in healthcare costs, £140 million in crime costs, £80
million due to workplace absence and £2.5 billion due to
unemployment. The savings would be even higher should the
Government choose to introduce a minimum unit price of 50
pence.
However, Churches and charities have warned that a delay in
implementing a new policy will only worsen the damage caused by
cheap alcohol to individuals and communities.
"The evidence speaks for itself," added Ms Pickles. "We see no
reason for a delay in implementing the measures when so many
academics and health professionals are backing the move. We cannot
act quick enough to save lives and safeguard the vulnerable.
"Things weren't always like this. Over recent decades, Britain has
developed an unhealthy drinking culture, fuelled by a drinks
industry which aggressively markets its products. We would also
like to see broader action taken to address the root causes of this
damaging culture."
A survey conducted in December last year revealed that 61% of UK
adults believe that excessive drinking is a problem (from minor to
major) in their neighbourhood. The survey commissioned by the
Methodist Church and their partners asked people to judge the
effects of alcohol on the area within walking distance from their
home, or where they use local facilities. More information can be
found here.