FIFE LICENSING BOARD SUPPORTS SNP GOVT’S MINIMUM PRICING

FIFE LICENSING BOARD SUPPORTS SNP GOVT’S MINIMUM PRICING

SENIOR LIB DEM COUNCILLOR BACKS SNP PROPOSALS

Today (Monday 25^th January) Fife’s licensing board has backed proposals for minimum pricing on alcohol following a motion by the SNP’s David Mogg and seconded by Liberal Democrat William Sangster. The news comes the same day as drink giant Tennent’s also announced its support for plan.

All 14 directors of public health in Scotland have backed the plan and now the pressure is mounting on the opposition parties in the Scottish Parliament to stop playing politics with the nation’s health.

Commenting, the MSP for Falkirk West, Michael Matheson - a member of the Scottish Parliament's Health Committee - said:

“This is, again, very welcome news. I am delighted that Councillor Sangster has risen above party politics and backed these proposals for the good of the nation’s health.

“Tavish Scott has been under pressure with the Liberal Democrats in Westminster calling for minimum pricing to be introduced in England and Wales whilst, simultaneously, dragging heels here in Scotland.

“The proposals have received backing from numerous companies, organisations and medical professionals who say that this will go someway in combating the country’s relationship with alcohol.

“I recognise that this won’t completely solve the problem, but it will help shift the culture and make Scotland a healthier nation.”