Issue - meetings

That the report be noted.

            The Licensing Team Leader introduced the report to make Members aware of the Public Health (Minimum Price for Alcohol) (Wales) Bill.

            A new law which would introduce a minimum price for alcohol in Wales had been approved by the National Assembly for Wales.  The Public Health (Minimum Price for Alcohol) (Wales) Bill was part of the Welsh Government’s (WG) wider aim to reduce excessive drinking, recognising the impacts this can have on people’s health and well-being.

            In conclusion, the Licensing Team Leader explained that once enacted, the new law would allow Welsh Ministers to introduce a minimum unit price for alcohol supplied in Wales.  The legislation would target and aim to reduce the amount of alcohol being consumed by hazardous and harmful drinkers, whilst minimising the impact on moderate drinkers.  Guidance would be issued and WG would work with retailers, Local Authorities and trading standards to prepare for implementation in the summer of 2019.

            Councillor Martin White welcomed the Bill which he hoped would have a similar positive income as had been witnessed in Scotland but questioned how this would be enforced.  The Licensing Team Leader commented on the health benefits which had been reported in Scotland following introduction of a similar Bill. 

            Councillor Ralph Small was concerned on the impact the Bill would have on Public Houses.  Councillor Brian Lloyd agreed with the comments and said that the Bill would benefit local supermarkets and off-licences and was concerned of the impact on low income families.  The Licensing Team Leader explained that the level of the minimum unit price would be made by the WG following consultation this year and the purpose of the new law was to address longstanding and specific health concerns around the effects of excess alcohol consumption which was estimated to be costing the Welsh NHS over £150m annually.

            Councillor Rosetta Dolphin commented that when increasing low cost alcohol this would have a knock on effect for all alcohol costs.

RESOLVED:

That the report be noted.