Plus it is a tad cruel. Especially now as times are hard and peoples’ daily living is already stretched and squeezed on all directions. Of course I am not advocating folks should drink to ease daily pressures, but having the choice to do so, is a simple right and should not be denied or curtailed for political point scoring.

More drinkers than not exercise sensible and responsible drinking. They know their limits and mostly drink in the privacy for their own homes, disturbing no one. They are the majority and should not be punished by the foolishness and irresponsibility of the few, the minority.

It is nothing new or a secret that drinking too much alcohol is damaging to health, family lives and communities. And not to know or understand that, with the amount of information already out there, is impossible. Imposing a minimum pricing on alcohol is the lazy way out for a problem that for some is a disease rather than accessibility or cost.

We always refer to the Continent as an example of how people there drink regularly but don’t overdo it, or have the problems we face here in the UK. They don’t because of the culture and their style of drinking. And, although they drink regularly, they do it socially and with food.

It is why, in my opinion, educating about drinking and the improper use of alcohol is far cheaper and more effective long term than the temporary solution short term tactics of ‘increase the price’ that prices out a segment of the society. Because those who have a habit and developed a dependency to alcohol will always find a way and the means to feed that need. Take for example drug addicts who steal and sometimes even kill. They do it to their nearest and dearest, they will hurt anyone including their own families to get their hands on the money they need for their fix.

Educating might take long to achieve results. And it will most definitely cost more than just increasing the price. Plus of course it will not generate extra revenues for the state. But changing the drinking culture, of some, in the UK is by far a more effective, healthier and long term solution and will leave a lasting legacy. It is definitely more precious than the short term; quick fix proposed pricing increase – particularly as we already know the problem needs a long term and permanent resolution.