Minimum alcohol price in Scotland breaches EU law, court rules

[barryqwalsh]

In a significant blow to one of Nicola Sturgeon’s flagship policies, the European court of justice (ECJ) said the policy could be justified on health grounds under EU law only if it was more proportionate and effective than using general taxation.

Using taxation would still allow retailers to set their own prices, and compete against each other. Imposing a 50p per unit minimum price on alcoholic drinks – a policy the Scottish parliament passed with cross-party support – would restrict retailers in doing so.

Minimum alcohol price in Scotland breaches EU law, court rules