'Scottish government's minimum pricing plans under fire'

"The Scottish government is said to be risking its carefully cultivated pro-business image by pressing ahead with plans to set a minimum price for alcohol in an attempt to tackle an entrenched problem of drink abuse. The minority Scottish National party administration's intention has drawn criticism from drinks companies, the Scotch whisky industry, and retailers. The government has not yet named the minimum price it wants to set in its alcohol bill that will go through Holyrood." - Financial Times​

"A town is planning to ban street drinking to stop parents consuming alcohol outside a primary school. Mothers and fathers have been seen swigging from cans and bottles as they drop their children off in the morning. Some parents have been seen drinking as they walk their children to school as early as 8.30am. Teachers say it is undermining their efforts as they try to spell out the dangers of alcohol to the pupils at Doncaster Road Primary in Barnsley, South Yorkshire." - Mail On Sunday​

"A total of 61 branches of Wine Cellar, which trades as Booze Buster and Simply Drinks, closed as it plunged into administration with the loss of 320 jobs. The remaining 109 shops were snapped up by EFB Retail - safeguarding 640 jobs. Sixty head office staff in Runcorn, Cheshire, will also been kept on. Administrators Deloitte said Wine Cellar had struggled to make money for some time but the recession was the final nail in the group's coffin." - The Mirror​

"Dorothy Peel celebrated turning 107 and claimed daily boozing was her secret to a long life. The pensioner enjoys a half pint of sherry and two whiskies every day - as well as the odd ciggie. Dot said: 'So much for smoking and drinking is not good for you. I'm living proof that a little of what you fancy does you good.' She believes never having had kids also helped and added: 'That's probably why I look and feel so good.'" - Sunday Mirror​