Path cleared for minimum alcohol pricing
BMA Cymru Wales has welcomed a ruling by the supreme court which clears the way for the minimum unit pricing of alcohol to be introduced in the country.
The Public Health (Minimum Price for Alcohol) (Wales) Bill was introduced before the National Assembly for Wales by the Welsh Government last month.
However, its success, if it is passed by AMs, largely depended on the ruling from the supreme court. It follows a legal row between the Scottish Government, which also wants to introduce minimum unit pricing, and the Scotch Whisky Association.
BMA Welsh council chair David Bailey said: 'BMA Cymru Wales wholeheartedly welcomes the news that the policy to implement minimum unit pricing of alcohol can proceed in Scotland. [This] development paves the way for minimum unit pricing to be implemented in Wales.
'While alcohol in moderation forms part of many people's social behaviour, alcohol excess or addiction can destroy lives.
'Implementing a minimum unit cost will uphold people’s health as a priority in Wales.'
Health secretary Vaughan Gething AM said: 'We welcome this clear, unanimous judgement that minimum pricing is an appropriate and proportionate means of tackling hazardous and harmful drinking.'
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