Tesco back minimum price on alcohol

Supermarket Tesco has backed the SNP’s proposals for minimum pricing.

The SNP’s proposals for a minimum price on alcohol to tackle the problems and cost of alcohol to Scottish society are currently going through the Scottish Parliament.

Welcoming Tesco’s new position Scottish Health Secretary and SNP Depute Leader Nicola Sturgeon commented:

“Minimum pricing”

“Tesco is a big voice and will make a difference. What’s particularly encouraging is that Tesco are saying they’re making this shift in position as a result of the views of their customers – because I think there is a sea change under way in public opinion.

“People increasingly understand the damage that alcohol misuse is doing.”

SNP MSP Michael Matheson said he would be writing to other supermarkets urging them to reconsider their positions and to support minimum pricing;

“That Tesco continue to sell low cost alcohol is disappointing but emphasises the need for legislation to tackle this problem in a competitive market.  I will be writing to Asda, Sainsbury, Morrisons and Co-operative urging them to add their support to Tesco’s and to back the Scottish Government’s proposal for minimum pricing.”

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