Should Alcohol Be Weaker?

Local councils say that drink-related problems can be solved by weaker beers, ciders, wines and spirit.

16:20 30 March 2016

The Local Government Association believes that drink-related problems can be solved by weaker alcohol. As such, it has called on ministers to extend tax breaks on lower-strength 2.8per cent beers to include ciders and wines.

 

Tony Page, the licensing spokesman for the LGA, said: "Increasing the availability of zero alcohol and weaker strength drinks will help people live healthier lives by helping to control drinking levels and tackle the harm caused by excessive drinking.

 

"With a new generation of non-drinkers on the rise, there is a growing demand for greater choice in alcohol-free and weaker drinks, with several 'dry bars' opening up across the country.

 

"Tax breaks for beer have helped fuel a rise in low-strength products. This should now be extended to cider, wine and spirits."

 

Meanwhile, a spokesman for the Portman Group - which campaigns for the drinks industry on social responsibility - said: "We welcome this support for lower strength drinks.

 

"Official statistics show a decade-long decline in harmful drinking in the UK, and alcohol companies are committed to continuing this positive trend."

 

A spokesman for the British Beer and Pub Association said: "Lower taxes for lower strength drinks is a great idea, and we would support this principle for other drinks categories."