TOUGH ACTION NEEDED ON BOOZE.

TOUGH ACTION NEEDED ON BOOZE.

TOUGH ACTION NEEDED ON BOOZE.
HOMICIDE STATS HIGHLIGHT NEED FOR TOUGH ACTION ON BOOZE

Commenting on today's homicide statistics from police forces which show that 114 people were illegally killed in the year ending April 2008 compared to 119 the previous year SNP MSP Michael Matheson - a member of the Scottish Parliament's Health Committee - said:

"With the figures showing drink or drugs were involved in 45% of homicide cases the Scottish Government's policy to tackle the scourge of binge drinking is right.

"It's time to get serious about the impact excessive alcohol is having on society. These figures highlight how a casual cultural attitude to the dangers of alcohol can no longer be tolerated.

"The Scottish Government is on the right track to address this issue by addressing the matters of purchase age and pricing.

"Considering these figures I would hope all parties can address the issue of excessive alcohol in a serious matter and avoid the temptation of populism."
This is an official press release.