CHEAP ALCOHOL FUELS HARMFUL DRINKING

CHEAP ALCOHOL FUELS HARMFUL DRINKING

SNP MSP and Health Committee member Michael Matheson today welcomed research from Edinburgh University into the cost and consumption of alcohol by those with serious alcohol related health problems as further evidence of the importance minimum pricing can have in tackling Scotland's problems with alcohol.

The research showed that those drinking to excess used cheap alcohol to fuel their drinking - with cheap vodka and white cider dominating their consumption.

The study showed that the majority of alcohol used by those in the study cost less than 40p per unit, with white cider available at 15p per unit.

Mr Matheson said:

“There is a clear correlation between price and alcohol consumption. This study reveals the strength of this link, particularly where drinking is causing serious health problems.

"With the majority of alcohol drunk by those with serious problems available for less than 40 p per unit there can be no denying the important impact minimum pricing could have on Scotland's health.

“That white cider is available at 15 pence per unit is a damning indictment of current pricing policy.

“The majority of alcohol consumed by people in this study was bought for less than 40 p per unit from supermarkets and off licences, when the average price per unit across both on and off-sales in Scotland is over 70p.

“Minimum pricing will have an impact where it matters most – in reducing the availability of the pocket money priced alcohol that causes much of the health and social harm.”