Minimum price for alcohol in Scotland rises by 30%

Some groups representing the alcohol trade have previously opposed an increase, but anti-alcohol charities have come out in support of it.

GMB Scotland, which represents members across the drinks industry, warned that the policy was already putting jobs and investment at risk and questioned its “unproven” health benefits.

The Association of Independent Retailers warned that raising the minimum price could increase the risk of alcohol theft for retailers.

Health Minister Neil Gray said he was confident the program had saved hundreds of lives.

He said the price increase was due to inflation.

“Of course we hope that by increasing it we will see a further improvement in the situation alongside the other aspects we are considering, including alcohol advertising and marketing,” Gray said.

Willie Rennie of the Scottish Liberal Democrats supported the move.

He said: “The original impact of minimum prices has weakened over time as inflation has reduced the effectiveness of the policy.”

“In Scotland, more than 20 people die every week from alcohol abuse. Opponents of minimum pricing must explain what alternatives they propose to address the pressure it will place on our health and justice systems.”

Scottish Labor public health spokeswoman Carol Mochan said frontline alcohol and drug services needed “adequate funding” from the SNP to be effective.

She added: “Scottish Labor will consider all evidence-based plans to improve public health, but the SNP must recognize that there is no panacea.”