WSTA: Higher taxes would be unfair

Raising taxes on alcohol to curb irresponsible drinking would be 'unfair' on the majority of people who enjoy alcohol in moderation, the Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) has said.

The taxation proposal was included in a report from the British Medical Association.

It says higher taxes would discourage alcohol abuse and reduce the number of alcohol-related harms.

Commenting, WSTA chief executive Jeremy Beadles said: "It does seem odd to acknowledge that the vast majority of us drink responsibly yet call for tax increases which would punish all of us for the sins of a few.

"It would be unfair and ineffective. What we need is a comprehensive approach that addresses the social factors that contribute to alcohol misuse."

He added: "The alcohol drinks industry continues to work with government to reduce underage sales, increase awareness of recommended daily guidelines and educate people about responsible drinking. What is clear is that more must be done to enforce the great breadth of laws already available to target alcohol misuse."