Homelessness charity Thames Reach’s campaign against the destructive super-strength drinks trade received a huge boost after Labour MP Martin Linton urged Chancellor Alistair Darling to increase tax on beers and ciders over 6% in strength.
Linton told MPs that super-strength lagers and ciders were more damaging than both heroin and crack cocaine during a Private Members debate in Parliament. His assessment was informed by the experiences of Thames Reach staff working on the streets and in hostels with homeless men and women whose health is being wrecked by the super-strengths.
He also drew attention to the absurdity of a single 500ml can of super-strength lager containing more alcohol (4.5 units) than the recommended daily maximum allowance for a man, saying the drinks should only be available in smaller cans.
Ends
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
