Council chiefs have approved the first step in plans to ban cheap alcohol in Greater Manchester.

But the proposals, which would see a by-law introduced with a minimum price of 50p per unit, are still ‘a long way off’, say town hall bosses.

Experts have been exploring the details of a minimum-pricing by-law for the area covered by the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA). But an interim report on the plans, presented to yesterday’s AGMA meeting, said the issue was too complex to be decided yet. 

The 10 local authorities will also wait to see the results of reviews of various national laws that could affect their plans.

The by-law, if approved, would see the price of a bottle of wine increase to at least £4.50, with a two-litre bottle of cider costing £5.50.

It would also ban certain special offers and would force retailers to display the alcohol content on drinks.  > > > >  Read More