Sturgeon called on to clarify alcohol rules

Published on Wednesday 28 April 2010 21:14

HEALTH secretary Nicola Sturgeon has been asked to explain details of the SNP's plan to tackle alcohol abuse, after concerns over a lack of information.

Holyrood's health committee invited her to attend a session next Wednesday to discuss a range of issues before MSPs can make up their minds.

The committee previously warned that the Scottish Government's Alcohol Bill faced delays because of "unresolved issues".

Ms Sturgeon has also faced opposition calls to reveal what the proposed minimum price for alcoholic units will be. A guide of 40p per unit has been used to illustrate the policy.

The committee wants to explore the impact of the bill on poorer households, internet and cross-Border sales and the operation of a "social responsibility levy" on retailers.

Updated research on minimum pricing by the University of Sheffield will be also be discussed.

Published last week, the data showed the effect of the policy is "slightly smaller" than previously estimated.

The pricing policy has wide support from the health profession and sections of the drinks industry. But Labour, the Tories and the Liberal Democrats all oppose the measure.