Don't make us all pay for binge drinkers, say Scots


03 August 2008

By Eddie Barnes

TWO-thirds of Scots believe ministers are acting unfairly by pushing up the price of alcohol for everyone simply to crack down on the minority of problem drinkers, according to a new survey.

In the first poll of public opinion since the Scottish Government unveiled its plans for a "drink tax", Scots declared they did not believe raising prices should be the focus of attack to reduce the drink culture.

Instead, the public believes ministers should crack down on off-licences that sell to underage drinkers, force police to arrest drunks, and improve education in schools. Scots, the survey says, believe it is peer pressure and irresponsible parents – and not low taxes – that are most to blame for alcohol abuse.
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