MP calls for price in alcohol-free drinks
An MP has called for the Government to work with the drinks industry to reduce the price of non-alcoholic beers and wines.
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Mark Pritchard, MP for The Wrekin, asked health minister Andrew Gwynne to look at how to cut the cost of non-alcoholic drinks.
Mr Pritchard said: "Non-alcoholic drinks need to be lower in price than alcoholic drinks to improve public health and reduce alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour."
He called on government ministers to hold discussions with manufacturers and importers of non-alcoholic beer, lager, wine and spirits products with the aim of making those drinks cheaper for customers than their alcoholic equivalents.
The Tory MP said reforms by the previous government meant that alcoholic drinks were now taxed according to their strength, to support innovation and responsible drinking.
"Low-strength drinks below 3.5 per cent are charged at a lower rate of alcohol duty, while stronger alcoholic products attract a higher rate of duty," he said.
Mr Gwynne said the Government would continue to consider how best to address and reduce alcohol-related harms
