The minimum unit pricing of alcohol in Scotland could soon rise after SNP ministers launched a long-awaited review of the controversial policy.
The law makes retailers charge 50p per unit of alcohol and was intended as a way of reducing the appeal of cheap high-strength drinks such as white cider.
But a recent academic study of the policy - which was introduced in 2018 after years of legal challenges - found it had not altered the drinking habits of Scots suffering from the worst effects of alcoholism.
READ MORE: Communities in Scotland 'wallpapered' in alcohol advertising
Health campaigners and opposition parties have previously called for the minimum unit price to rise from 50p to at least 65p.
Maree Todd, public health minister, today confirmed a review will be launched after being delayed by the pandemic.
But the outcome won't be known until late next year and any price increase won't take effect until the spring of 2024.
Todd said: “The introduction of minimum unit pricing for alcohol in Scotland has helped reduce alcohol sales to their lowest since records began.
"I am encouraged by this downward trend in alcohol consumption.
"However, Scots are still drinking almost 30 per cent more than the low risk drinking guidelines of 14 units per adult per week.
"A review of the current level of 50p per unit was delayed by the pandemic. This extensive exercise is now underway and I can confirm that it will be completed in late 2023.
"It is intended that any new price would come into effect from May 1, 2024, subject to parliamentary scrutiny and approval."
It comes as the Scottish Government was today urged to restrict alcohol promotions in public places amid claims that communities are being "wallpapered" in booze adverts.
A report by Alcohol Focus Scotland warned the high visibility of such ads means people are "constantly bombarded with positive messages" about the effects of drinking.
The charity wants SNP and Green ministers to take further action against alcohol marketing which it claimed has become "increasingly sophisticated and more difficult to avoid".
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