Scots say “no” to drink curb

Members of Parliament agreed to ban promotions such as supermarket multi-buy deals, “buy-one-get-one-free” offers. This will come into effect in 2011, making this Christmas the last chance to take advantage of such offers.

They also backed a “social responsibility levy”, giving councils the power to tax those selling alcohol. This includes pubs, hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and even music festivals.

The proceeds will be used to offset the estimated GBP 500 million (EUR 590 million) in annual costs to the justice system and National Health Service of alcohol-related crimes and illness.

Scots drink about 24 percent more alcohol a year than people elsewhere in Britain, with death rates from alcohol-related liver disease being twice as high as in England and Wales, it was reported.

The introduction of minimum pricing for booze has been hotly debated south of the border too. The Coalition Government in London has so far ruled out minimum pricing on alcohol but does want to see an end to the sale of alcohol below cost price. A consultation aimed at defining “below cost” ended in September with options expected to be presented by the end of the year.