Written question WQ89026
- Asked by
- Andrew RT DaviesConservative
- To be answered by
- Minister for Health and Social Services
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 3 days
Question
What consideration has the Minister given to reviewing the minimum unit pricing for alcohol policy, in light of evidence suggesting that alcohol related deaths have increased since it was introduced?
Answer
Answered by Deputy Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing
Minimum unit pricing for alcohol is one of the tools, which aims to reduce alcohol related harm. It needs to be seen in the context of other elements of effective alcohol policy, notably effective treatment provision.
The Welsh Government has commissioned an independent evaluation of the legislation and four contracts have been awarded, looking at different aspects of implementation. Interim reports have been published and allow us to review progress but it is too early to make a judgement about the effectiveness of the policy. A further follow-up will be undertaken, with final reports available towards the end of 2024.
These evaluation reports will help inform a report about the operation and effect of the legislation and ultimately the sunset clause included in the legislation, which will give Senedd Members an opportunity to consider repealing or continuing the provisions set out in the bill.