CAMRA backs Scots clampdown

The Campaign for Real Ale is supporting moves by the Scots Parliament to ban below-cost alcohol sales.

The organisation's support for such an initiative was announced back in January 2007, in the wake of reserach revealing some supermarkets were selling alcohol cheaper than the equivalent amount of bottled water.

CAMRA chief executive Mike Benner said: "It is irresponsible and reckless for the major supermarkets to sell alcohol at below cost. A person who is addicted to alcohol is completely free to buy an enormous amount of alcohol at ridiculously low cost and then consume it, either at home or on the streets.

"It is well documented that irresponsible price promotions in the off trade are a major cause of binge drinking and alcohol related disorder."

Supermarket undercutting has been blamed in part for the closure of nearly six British pubs early day.

"Well-run community pubs are being undermined as a result of unfair competition from the major supermarkets selling alcohol at below cost," he added. "Supermarkets are subsidising alcohol loss leaders by higher prices elsewhere in their stores which is not something a pub can do.

"Well-run community pubs abide by high standards which help encourage the sensible and responsible consumption of alcohol. These pubs are also at the heart of their communities providing an irreplaceable venue for socializing, sporting, community and charity activity."