News and views: An Open Letter to the Prime Minister

Dear Prime Minister & Chancellor,

RE: Increase in taxation on alcohol

I am writing to you both to help me understand why the increase in taxation on alcohol (which is estimated to generate £400 million) is not being spent on alcohol treatment. This income would go a significant way to creating a treatment structure similar to the drug treatment network established under the National Treatment Agency.

The increase in taxation was, as I understand it, purely on the basis of trying to reduce alcohol related harm and the concern over binge drinking.

Whilst you may have models that suggest increase in taxation will reduce overall consumption and thus in the long term reduce some alcohol related health harm, the fact is that this increase will have no impact on those who already have a significant problem (around 2.5 million by your own statistics) and will more likely worsen their situation, because they will simply consume the same amount and have less to spend on basic commodities and their families.

In terms of bingeing and the associated disorder it will have no impact, with the same patterns of consumption set to continue, except perhaps an increase in drinking prior to going out.

With the National Alcohol Strategy ineffective and gathering dust and a Licensing Act which is confused, this response appears to be yet further evidence of a confused approach to alcohol  and alcohol misuse, apart from earning yet more income. The parallel with how the illegal drug markets operate are frighteningly similar, except it is her Majesty's Government who benefits.

Yours Sincerely

Andy Stonard
Chief Executive
Rugby House (Alcohol & Drug Services)