SUPERMARKETS EXPOSE NEED FOR ALCOHOL MINIMUM PRICE.

SUPERMARKETS EXPOSE NEED FOR ALCOHOL MINIMUM PRICE.

TACKLING PUB DISCOUNTS LEAVES SUPERMARKETS RESPONSIBLE,

SNP MSP Michael Matheson has today issued a renewed call to end the sale of cheap alcohol in Scotland's supermarkets. The call follows a survey by the Scottish National Party last week that found alcohol could be purchased, as part of cut-price offer in one of Scotland's leading supermarket chains, for as little as 16 pence per unit.

In an offer from Tesco anyone who spent £30 or more could purchase 18 cans of Tennents lager for £5; and Asda was also offering 45 cans of Fosters or Carling lager for £20 Commenting Michael Matheson said:

"Drinking alcohol is part of Scottish culture, but unfortunately it's clear that the relationship is affecting the nation's health. No one is out to end responsible drinking, but irresponsible sales support irresponsible drinking. "

Last week in stores across Scotland it was possible to buy 18 cans of lager for only £5, that is less than 16 pence per unit.

"One in 20 Scots are dying from alcohol related causes and our drinking is costing our public services £2.25 billion, with much more in terms of human misery as these figures starkly demonstrate.

"Together we've got what it takes to change this culture. We need a radical solution and part of that is tackling the sale of cheap alcohol.

"Tesco and their supermarket allies may think they are offering a good deal to the consumer, but cheap alcohol is a bad deal for society.

"The big stores talk about "corporate social responsibility" but are failing to show that responsibility in their sale of alcohol "A minimum price per unit of alcohol needs to be set.

This would not increase the price of medium range wines or whiskies, instead it would tackle these cheap ciders and irresponsible promotions.

"New laws in force this week have brought an end to irresponsible promotions in pubs and clubs, now it is time to address the problem of deep discounts in Scotland's supermarkets.

“As a licensed product alcohol should never be used as a loss leader or a marketing tool for a supermarket."



Information on all the said recent offers,

Tesco:

Spend £30 or more and get 18 x 440ml of Tennents (4%) for £5. Deal ran from 19th to 26th August.

Asda:

45 x 440ml cans of Fosters or Carling (4%) for £20
32 x 568ml bottles of Bulmers Cider (4.5%) for £20

Deal on going.

2ltr Oakstone Cider (4.2%) for £1.21 – on going.