Campaign launches in Scotland on minimum unit price for alcohol as ministers prepare to make recommendations on figure
'Retailers are the key to ensuring the legislation is implemented, which is why it is crucial we raise awareness of this change in the law early and give people time to get prepared'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A campaign is being launched to raise awareness of Scotland’s minimum unit price for alcohol as ministers prepare to make a recommendation on its level.
Owners of the 5,300 convenience stores across Scotland will be targeted with posters, leaflets and adverts over the coming weeks highlighting the changes coming in from 1 May.
Health secretary Shona Robison is due to make a recommendation to MSPs on a minimum unit price next week following a consultation.
The Scottish Parliament voted through legislation for a 50p per unit minimum price for alcohol in 2012, but the policy has been long delayed after a legal challenge was brought by the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), which argued it breached European laws.
The case went to the highest court in Scotland and the European Court of Justice before it was given the green light by justices at the UK Supreme Court in November.
Ms Robison said: “Minimum unit pricing will tackle the scourge of cheap, high-strength drink that causes so much damage to so many families and is going to save the lives of thousands of Scots.
“Retailers are the key to ensuring the legislation is implemented, which is why it is crucial we raise awareness of this change in the law early and give people time to get prepared.”
She added: “These materials will allow shop-owners to access a valuable bank of information to educate themselves and their staff ahead of the change on 1 May.
“Our consultation on the price of a unit of alcohol recently closed and I am looking forward to presenting our recommendation to the Scottish Parliament next week.”
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments