'Minimum pricing is untested and untargeted'

Minimum pricing is an untested and untargeted tool and a ban on below cost selling of alcohol would be far more effective — that's the view of the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR).

The trade body welcomed the Home Affairs Select Committee's recognition of the impact of supermarkets' irresponsible alcohol pricing policies on policing resources but has called for a targeted approach to address the problem.

The Home Affairs Select Committee wants a ban on drinks promotions in pubs, plus minimum pricing and an end to loss-leading alcohol sales in shops.

The report from the Home Affairs Committee also recommends a mandatory code of conduct for pubs — with penalties for breaches — and supports the principle of an extra tax for operators in alcohol trouble spots.

"We welcome the report's strong criticism of the socially irresponsible below cost selling practices of supermarkets," said ALMR chief executive Nick Bish. "It is good to see some recognition of the specific issue of 'pre-loading' which leads to real problems in our parks, playgrounds and on our streets. The ALMR has been calling for action to tackle this problem for some time now."

But he added: "There needs to be more detailed consideration of what a minimum pricing policy would mean. We understand why the Committee is attracted to this proposal. But it is worth noting that it has not examined its effectiveness as a policy instrument.

"Supermarkets have rightly been identified as primary source of the problem of irresponsible drinking, and therefore a targeted move would be appropriate. ALMR believes that this evidence adds to the already compelling argument for the Government to seriously consider a ban on below cost selling.

"Cost price, including alcohol duty plus VAT, is a clear benchmark and provides the right solution to a specific problem."