Homelessness agency Thames Reach has backed Conservative Party plans to increase tax on super-strength lagers and ciders.
The charity has been lobbying government and the drinks industry for the last four years in a bid to tackle these problem drinks which have killed thousands of homeless and marginalised people across the UK since their introduction onto the market in the 1980s.
The Conservatives’ plans involve trebling taxes on strong lager and ciders whilst reducing duty on low alcohol products.
Jeremy Swain, Thames Reach Chief Executive, said: “Thames Reach has been campaigning on this issue since 2005, attracting considerable media interest and the signatures of 53 MPs across all parties when its Early Day Motion was submitted for debate in the House of Commons.
“This news represents the biggest step towards reaching our campaign goals. We applaud the Conservatives for this humane and sensible move and would urge the government to follow suit. These destructive super-strength drinks devastate the lives of homeless people. An increase in price of this magnitude will make these drinks less obtainable, so reducing consumption and saving lives.”
The tax changes would mean a four-pack of super-strength lager such as Carlsberg Special Brew costing an extra £1.30 and a bottle of super-strength cider an extra £1.25. A single can of super-strength lager will go up 30p in price.
Tax rises would apply to cider containing more than 5.6% alcohol, such as Diamond White and White Lightning, and beers containing more than 5.9 %, such as Tennent’s Super and Carlsberg Special Brew.
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Notes to editor
1) Thames Reach is one of the UK’s leading homelessness charities. Its ultimate goal is to end street homelessness.
It runs a range of services to help rough sleepers off the streets, accommodation including hostels and supported housing projects for individuals with drug and alcohol problems and innovative schemes which help people develop new skills, re-engage with family and friends, and get back into work. See www.thamesreach.org.uk
2) For further details contact Thames Reach communications manager Mike Nicholas on 07816 113420 or 0207 702 5646.
mike.nicholas@thamesreach.org.uk
