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Scotland will introduce minimum alcohol pricing

Scotland will become the first country in the world to set a minimum price for alcohol from May – despite the drinks industry trying to block the move. The decision increases the pressure on England to follow suit.

The Scottish parliament passed legislation in 2012 to introduce a 50p-per-unit price. Some high strength ciders and own brand spirits can sell in Scotland for as little as 18p a unit, meaning that the maximum recommended weekly intake of 14 units can be bought for as little as £2.52.

This will rise to £7, and the Scottish government has cited strong evidence that raising prices helps to reduce consumption and related harm.

The Supreme Court ruled that a minimum price was “appropriately targeted, lawful and proportionate”.