The Welsh Government is considering raising the ‘Strongbow tax’, also known as minimum unit pricing for alcohol, which was first implemented five years ago to combat the sale of cheap alcohol. The measure initially set the price at 50p per unit in March 2020, with the aim of reducing harmful drinking habits and tackling binge drinking. Minister for Mental Health, Sarah Murphy, has reported a decrease in the sales of inexpensive alcohol products across Wales as a positive outcome of this legislation.
In a recent report, it has been recommended that the minimum unit pricing policy should be extended with an increase to “at least” 65p per unit. This recommendation comes following an evaluation showing the success of the current policy in reducing alcohol-related harm. Ms. Murphy highlighted that initial concerns about a potential shift to illegal substances due to increased alcohol prices have not materialised. She emphasised that the legislation is just one part of a broader strategy, with substantial funding allocated for substance misuse services.
The introduction of minimum unit pricing, often termed as the ‘Strongbow tax’, primarily impacted the prices of strong, cheap beer, and cider. For instance, a standard pint of beer or cider equating to 2.5 units of alcohol cannot be sold for less than £1.25, based on the 50p minimum unit price. The Welsh Government plans to conduct a 12-week consultation involving key stakeholders to gather feedback on this proposed increase.
Alcohol Change UK’s Director for Wales, Andrew Misell, acknowledged the effectiveness of minimum unit pricing in curbing alcohol harm. He stressed the importance of maintaining and potentially increasing the price to at least 65p per unit to align with Scotland’s approach. Misell also noted the need for enhanced support and treatment for individuals with alcohol dependencies, particularly those on lower incomes facing financial strains from increased pricing.
The Welsh Government’s review of minimum unit pricing has underscored the significance of pricing in influencing alcohol consumption patterns, with MUP proving to be an effective tool in limiting the sale of high-strength alcoholic beverages. The report has not shown any significant adverse effects post-implementation, such as a rise in illegal drug usage or alternate methods of obtaining alcohol.
As the debate around minimum unit pricing continues, stakeholders emphasize the importance of prioritising public health outcomes and mitigating alcohol-related harm. The proposed increase to 65p per unit is seen as a proactive step in sustaining the positive impact of the policy. With ongoing discussions and consultations, the Welsh Government aims to ensure that their alcohol policy strategies align with the overarching goal of promoting healthier drinking habits and reducing alcohol-related harm in communities.