BUDGET RAISES COST OF DRINKING, SMOKING

Royal College of Psychiatrists’ Addictions faculty welcomes increase in alcohol tax

Dr Michael Farrell, chair of the Addictions faculty of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, which is also one of the key partners of the Alcohol Health Alliance, welcomed the “long overdue and modest increase in taxation” announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer [13 March 2008]. 

"The health consequences of heavy alcohol consumption are rising significantly," he said. "This move provides an important recognition by government concerning the health impact of heavy alcohol consumption.

"We will continue to promote greater focus on alcohol issues. We recommend that alcohol in the market place be given special consideration requiring special market regulation and that it must not treated as any other ordinary commodity."

More information at the Royal College of Psychiatrists website or telephone 020-7235 2351