Introducing a minimum unit price on alcohol could save the NHS millions in Wales claims a new report.
Commissioned by the Welsh Government and Sheffield University, the ‘Research of the likely impact of public attitudes towards a minimum unit price for alcohol in wales’ concludes that introducing a minimum unit price of 50p per unit would save the Welsh economy £882m over a 20 year period.
Introducing a minimum unit price on alcohol could save the NHS millions in Wales claims a new report.
Commissioned by the Welsh Government and Sheffield University, the ‘Research of the likely impact of public attitudes towards a minimum unit price for alcohol in wales’ concludes that introducing a minimum unit price of 50p per unit would save the Welsh economy £882m over a 20 year period.
It also highlights the impact that a minimum unit price would have on alcohol-related deaths, hospital admissions and crime.
Professor Sir Iain Gilmore, chair of the Alcohol Healthcare Alliance UK (AHA), said: “International evidence demonstrates that a minimum unit price of 50 pence per unit is an effective and targeted measure which will reduce alcohol consumption without affecting moderate drinkers.”
“ The AHA has consistently campaigned for the introduction of this policy and the decision by the Welsh Government for plans to introduce minimum unit pricing is highly welcome.”
The AHA also recommends that tax on alcoholic products should be proportionate to the volume of alcohol contained to encourage the sale of low-strength products.
Sir Gilmore said: “At a time when the NHS and public services are straining under pressure from alcohol misuse, and when a can of lager can be sold cheaper than a bottle of water, it’s time to take action; we simply cannot afford to continue like this”.
