News by email Donate

Suggestions

Bishop-Christopher-Chessun-main_article_image.jpg
@SouthwarkCofE
UK News

Bishop renews calls for introduction of minimum alcohol pricing

by Press Association

The Bishop of Southwark Christopher Chessun pointed to academic research that showed the top 30 per cent of drinkers consumed 80% of all booze.

He also pointed out much of the beer in supermarkets was sold on promotion, priced well below 50p per unit.

 

He pressed the Government in the House of Lords as a study found supermarket beer is almost 188 per cent more affordable today than it was 30 years ago.

The Scottish Government has confirmed it will set a minimum price for alcohol of 50p a unit from May 1.

The bishop said: "Does the minister agree that a floor in the unit price of alcohol would help yield a more orderly, content and healthy society by bearing down on demand?"

Health Minister Lord O'Shaughnessy said a system was needed to target those drinking "in a way that is very, very deleterious for their health".

He told peers: "Minimum unit pricing remains under review and the Government will consider the evidence of its impact once it is available."

He said: "I think the issue here is not about the lack of evidence about whether reducing drinking has health benefits. It's making sure any new system is implemented in a way that is fair on those who drink sensibly, particularly those with low income."

Lord O'Shaughnessy pointed out the tax system had been "judiciously" to target problem high-strength drinks such as white cider.

Tory peer and surgeon Lord Riberio said liver disease, unlike cancer, was the only major cause of premature death that had increased since 1970.

He called for talks "to discuss what we can do in this country to follow the Scottish lead".

Stay up to date with the latest news stories from a Christian perspective. Sign up to our daily newsletter and receive more stories like this straight to your inbox every morning.

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate