Scots suffering the worst effects of alcoholism did not change their drinking habits once minimum pricing was introduced, with some of the poorest cutting back on food and energy so they could continue to buy drink, a study has found.
Among those drinking at harmful levels or those with alcohol dependence the study, published on Tuesday by Public Health Scotland, found no clear evidence of a change in consumption or severity of dependence once minimum unit pricing (MUP) was introduced.
And the research found that some economically vulnerable groups experienced increased financial strain as the price rises meant they were spending more on alcohol.
