Alcohol Concern today expressed disappointment as the Government neglected measures to improve public health in the Queen’s Speech. The national agency on alcohol misuse has been calling for the introduction of a minimum price for alcohol and other measures to reduce high levels of alcohol consumption.
The Queen’s Speech, which took place this morning as Parliament re-opened for the final session before a General Election, included proposed legislation on banking, anti-social behaviour and high speed rail. However, there was no legislation put forward to tackle current public health concerns, including alcohol misuse.
Alcohol Concern Chief Executive Don Shenker said:
With direct alcohol deaths set to reach almost 100,000 over the next ten years, we need urgent action to lower the whole country’s level of alcohol consumption.
If and when the mandatory code for alcohol sales is brought in, there will be no adoption of minimum price a hugely effective step towards protecting public health.
The Government has today missed a vital opportunity to improve the nation’s public health and the quality of life of those who misuse alcohol.
Alcohol Concern