The Scottish BMA has called upon political parties to outline how they will tackle alcohol misuse in the next Scottish Parliament as the May 5th election looms. In a press release, the BMA released figures from a survey that indicated alcohol was a factor in 5,500 GP attendances in one day. The BMA said it equated to 1.4 million consultations per year at an annual cost to the NHS in excess of £28 million.
A BBC report highlighted that alcohol-related admissions had peaked in 2007/8 and were now trending down. But statistician Professor Sheila Bird, from the Medical Research Council referred to the lag effect for harmful drinking to present as an admission, stating "the numbers of inpatients and deaths now could be a reflection of attitudes to alcohol in the 80s and 90s."
Alcohol policy has again been a key Scottish election issue, with parties continuing to clash over minimum pricing. Alcohol Focus Scotland (AFS) recently released a Manifesto making 8 calls to action for the next Scottish Parliament including pricing measures, sponsorship curbs and improved treatment. The Scottish National Party (SNP) would revive plans for a minimum price if re-elected, but the policy remains largely opposed by the other major parties.
Two barmen from the Irish Republic are due to go on trial for the manslaughter of a British man who died from acute alcohol intoxication, reports the BBC. It is the first case of its kind under the liquor liability laws in Ireland. In England it is an offence to 'knowingly sell or attempt to sell alcohol to a person who is drunk' but is punishable by a fine only.
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