Royal Assent for Minimum Unit Pricing in Wales

The Public Health (Minimum Price for Alcohol) (Wales) Act 2018 has now received Royal Assent following the approval of the Bill by the National Assembly for Wales in June.   The Welsh Government have said there will be a consultation commenced in the Autumn to assist Minsters in determining what the MUP should be.  It was further stated the MUP would then be introduced in the “summer” of 2019.  

First Minister, Carwyn Jones said:

“This legislation takes a sensible, targeted approach to a very real and evident problem in Wales today, by tackling the availability and affordability of cheap, strong alcohol. 

“In Wales, we have a proud tradition of taking action to protect the health of the public. This new law is part of our wider efforts to improve and protect the health of the population of Wales.”

Health Secretary, Vaughan Gething said:

“I’m delighted our landmark legislation to tackle the availability of cheap, strong alcohol in Wales has now become law.

“Last year alone, there were over 500 alcohol-related deaths and nearly 55,000 alcohol-related hospital admissions in Wales, with the direct health care costs attributable to alcohol amounting to an estimated £159m. 

“This legislation provides us with an opportunity for a step change. It gives us a chance to do more to address alcohol-related harms. And ultimately, it gives us a chance to do more to try to save lives.”

Scotland introduced the MUP at 50p on the 1^st May 2018.   That price was set in 2012 and we may well see Welsh Ministers look to impose a higher MUP given inflation, with some commentators suggesting 60p.

We will keep you updated on developments.