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Manchester councils discuss minimum alcohol price plan
Fri 05 Mar 2010
Local authorities in Greater Manchester are looking at introducing a minimum price for each unit of alcohol.
The policy has been instigated by Mark Alcock of Oldham Council, who confirmed they are looking at putting prices at a minimum level of 50p per unit.
Speaking to Off Licence News, he said smaller retailers have been very supportive of the idea, as it would help to put them on a level playing field with supermarkets.
However, it is likely that many larger retail companies would oppose the policy if it comes into force.
Mr Alcock, a Liberal Democrat councillor, said authorities in Manchester have taken legal advice regarding the introduction of minimum alcohol prices, as any policy would be put in place without national legislation being in effect.
This could potentially pave the way for other towns and cities in Britain to introduce similar schemes.
Mr Alcock added that if the plan comes into place and stores sell alcohol at less than the minimum price, they could be hit with various licensing restrictions.
Robert Botkai, a partner at Winckworth Sherwood Solicitors, commented: "The attempt to bring in minimum pricing will be resisted by the off trade and probably not just the large retailers.
"It seems that Oldham Council is intent on bringing in licence conditions by threatening the review of licences.
"Whether they are successful is another matter.
"I spoke to the Manchester City Council licensing department about this last week and they had no knowledge.
"At this stage, I suspect the initiative is with Oldham and Oldham alone.
"Any licence holder receiving a letter from Oldham Council concerning this matter should consult a licensing solicitor."
