Scottish government publishes alcohol consultation responses

Published: 08 October, 2008

The Scottish National Party (SNP) has published the hundreds responses it received to its consultation on tackling Scotland's alcohol misuse problem.

The Scottish National Party (SNP) has published the hundreds responses it received to its consultation on tackling Scotland's alcohol misuse problem.

It received 530 responses to its plans to raise the off-sales purchase age to 21 and introduce minimum pricing. 260 responses were from individuals, 215 from organisations and 55 from MSPs and other sources.

The controversial proposals, which also include ending "irresponsible promotions" and imposing a social responsibility fee for some retailers, have provoked a split reaction. The plans were attacked by the drinks industry and many major retailers in their responses. But health trusts and alcohol campaigners have welcomed the consultation.

The SNP has vowed to push ahead with its "radical" plans, despite Scottish MP's also "overwhelmingly" rejecting them last week.

Scottish Minister for Public Health, Shona Robison, said: "The Scottish government's proposals for tackling alcohol misuse are unashamedly radical and I therefore welcome the enthusiastic response to our consultation.

"We will take into account all of the views expressed as we develop legislation to address an issue that has an impact on the whole of society.

"We must take action now to reverse the heavy toll excessive alcohol consumption is taking on our nation's health and wellbeing."

To view the full list of responses to the consultation, visit the SNP's website.