ACS

ACS has commented on today’s statements by the British Medical Association, Tesco and Asda regarding alcohol retailing and pricing.

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “We have consistently indicated to Government our willingness to discuss measures to address alcohol pricing. We fully supported the Government’s commissioning of research to establish the true link between pricing policies and alcohol harm, and we should wait for the completion of this research so that whatever measures are taken forward are properly targeted at tackling alcohol harm. Any proposals in this area must cover proportionately all parts of the industry and be based on clear evidence.

“Everyone involved in this debate has to understand that unless people are educated, empowered and made to account for their own actions the problem will not be properly tackled. It is therefore a shame the BMA shy away from asking tough questions of drinkers themselves, and it is not realistic to believe that legislation on pricing alone will address the cultural issues and personal choices that are the underlying causes of alcohol harm.”