Alcohol price policy justified, says Neil

THE health secretary “firmly” believes minimum alcohol pricing meets European law. Alex Neil also insists the measure is the “most effective and efficient way to tackle alcohol misuse in Scotland”.

He spoke after it emerged Europe has raised concerns about the Scottish Government’s plans for a minimum price. The European Commission and five EU nations have submitted legal questions about the legislation, passed by Holyrood in April.

The Scottish Government wants a floor price of 50p per unit. Critics fear it may fall foul of EU trade rules, but ministers argue it is justified on health grounds. Mr Neil said: “We will continue to press the case in the strongest possible terms.”