Health experts call for alcohol price rise

Health experts in the North East are calling for big increases in drink prices – following a steep increase in alcohol-related deaths.

They have written to Chancellor Rishi Sunak calling for alcohol duty to be raised by two percent above the inflation rate in his autumn budget – after new figures show alcohol is now the leading cause of death, illhealth and disability among 15 to 49-year-olds in England.

Campaigners say the North East has the worst illness and death rates in the country and an estimated 855,000 people in the region are drinking above recommended low-risk levels.

Campaigners say “pocket money” prices on some high strength drinks are fueling a health crisis.

Sue Taylor, head of alcohol policy for North East anti-alcohol group Balance, said: “Alcohol is too cheap, too heavily advertised and too available.

"We need a new, national evidence-based alcohol strategy to tackle price, promotion and availability of alcohol, as well as ensure access to treatment for those who need it.”

Dr James Crosbie, clinical lead for alcohol for the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System, said: “The NHS sees the fallout from alcohol every day.

“Much of the harm we see is being fuelled by cheap alcohol consumed at home.

"As health professionals working in the region worst affected by alcohol harm, we are urging the Government to act now, to support our frontline services and save lives.”

A recent survey by Balance found 51% of people supported an increase in alcohol taxation – if the money raised went into supporting health services.