AHA calls on Government to set alcohol minimum price of 50p per unit
In a letter to The Sunday Times, the alliance wrote: ''This policy will tackle head-on the problems caused by cheap drink, not only to drinkers but to those around them - the innocent victims of alcohol harm. Minimum unit pricing will target the heaviest drinkers: those who cause the most damage to themselves and others.
"It is essential that the government stands firm in tackling problem drinking in order to turn the tide of alcohol harm."
Currently, the government’s alcohol strategy places a 40p minimum alcohol unit prince in England and Wales. A 50p per unit rate has already been agreed in Scotland and is due to take effect next April but is subject to a legal challenge by opponents to the scheme.
The AHA also admitted that the unit price was not a ‘silver bullet,’ but said there was "good evidence" it would go some way to protecting future generations.
The British Medical Association and the Royal College of Nursing, along with 29 other organisations, make up the AHA, which has the mission of reducing the damage caused to health by alcohol misuse.
Last month Tory health committee member Sarah Wollaston said it would be “at least 2014” before the government could push ahead with its plans.
Currently, the government’s alcohol strategy places a 40p minimum alcohol unit prince in England and Wales, but a 50p tariff has already been agreed in Scotland.
The AHA also admitted that the unit price was not a ‘silver bullet,’ but said there is ‘good evidence’ it would go some way to protecting future generations.
The British Medical Association and the Royal College of Nursing, along with 29 other organisations, make up the AHA, which has the mission of reducing the damage caused to health by alcohol misuse.
