Updated story: PM backs local pricing approach
Local authorities in Manchester are exploring a minimum price approach for the region through possible use of a by-law. The move is supported by the Our Life health campaign group who are urging support for a 50p per unit minimum. They highlight support from the CMO, Health Select Committee report and Tesco, though opponents have questioned its legality and effectiveness.
Read more in reports from the Telegraph, BBC and Morning Advertiser.
Other areas have previosuly explored local 'minimum pricing' approaches including Oldham and Portsmouth. The Scottish Government have been seeking to implement the measure but have faced stiff political opposition.
The Coalition Government is currently carrying out a consultation on its proposals to overhaul the Licensing Act, which includes a 'ban on below cost sales'. It has also been suggested that the recent mandatory code could be rescinded in accordance with the Coalition's 'one in one out' policy on new legislation (see MA report). The HM Treasury is also conducting a review of alcohol taxation and pricing.
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