Minimum alcohol pricing plans to be shelved

Downing Street refused to confirm reports that the government was about to drop plans to introduce minimum alcohol pricing after coming under pressure form senior ministers. According to an article in the Times on Tuesday, the government was set to ditch plans announced in November for a minimum alcohol price in England and Wales in an attempt to restrain a binge-drinking culture. A consultation document issued at the time suggested a base price of 45 Pence per unit, but the government has yet to announce its final verdict. Home Secretary Theresa May, Communities Secretary Eric Pickles and Education Secretary Michael Gove were reported to be high-profile opponents of the proposals. Former Health Secretary Andrew Lansley warned the law would "more likely to have a bigger proportionate impact on responsible drinkers who happen to be low-income households". The report stirred an angry reaction from within the Conservative ranks and the Labour Party. Backbench Tory Sarah Wollaston took to Twitter, writing: "Very concerned about suggestion that minimum pricing to be dropped from alcohol strategy." Shadow home office minister Diana Johnson said: "Theresa May and David Cameron have announced a minimum alcohol price twice in the last 12 months. "Now we hear reports the Home Secretary has changed her mind on her own policy and wants to U-turn. "This is weak leadership and weak government. The Home Secretary and the Prime Minister said this measure would cut crime and prevent alcohol abuse. What's changed?"