Scottish doctors say ‘Minimum Pricing For Alcohol Only Credible Option Available’

Commenting in advance of a cross party meeting of Scottish politicians to discuss areas of consensus on alcohol policy, Dr Brian Keighley, Chairman of the BMA in Scotland, said:

“I am pleased that the political parties are coming together to discuss alcohol policy but it will not be possible to reach consensus until public health is put before party politics.

“So far, none of the major opposition parties have brought forward credible alternatives to minimum pricing, which modelling has shown could save hundreds of lives, reduce alcohol related illness and harm and cut alcohol consumption by around 5%.

“The NHS is buckling under the pressure of having to pick up the pieces of Scotland’s drinking culture which has largely been driven by cheap, strong alcohol.

“Consensus must be based on evidence-based policies and the BMA calls on the political parties to support minimum pricing or present an equally effective policy.”

Source: BMA Scotland Public Affairs Office