ACS

ACS has criticised David Cameron’s support for local minimum alcohol pricing. The Prime Minister made the comments in an interview with the Manchester Evening News, where he said the plans to introduce a minimum unit price of 50p in Greater Manchester would be looked at ‘sympathetically’.

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “While it is important that communities have the ability to influence the licensing policy and act to tackle alcohol related problems, it is also important that what they do is evidence-based and effective.

“The Government has already concluded that minimum pricing would not be an effective tool in tackling problem drinking so it is difficult to understand why David Cameron would support the policy at a local level.

“If local minimum pricing is implemented, local shops and national businesses alike will be hit hard by people shopping elsewhere so that they can avoid the restrictions. The Prime Minister’s comments are irresponsible at a time when many local shops are fighting just to stay open.”

Contacts:

James Lowman, Chief Executive
01252 515001

Chris Noice, Communications Assistant
01252 533013

Notes to Editors:

1. ACS (Association of Convenience Stores) is the voice of local shops, representing over 33,500 convenience stores. ACS helps local shops thrive through lobbying, support and networking opportunities.
2. David Cameron’s interview can be read here: http://menmedia.co.uk/manchestereveningnews/news/s/1313578_david_cameron_why_i_back_ban_on_cheap_booze
3. ACS will be writing to the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA) to outline our concerns around this issue