Scotland's minimum alcohol price policy

The price of cheap, high-strength alcohol has gone up in Scotland as long-awaited legislation on minimum pricing comes into force.

The law, which sets a floor price for drinks depending on how many units of alcohol they contain, was passed in 2012 but has faced legal challenges.

The Scottish government said the move would cut consumption and save lives.

High-strength white cider and cheap own-brand vodka and whisky will see the biggest rise in prices.

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The Scottish government said the move would cut consumption and save lives. Whilst some lives may be saved it's more likely just to make a lot of people very angry.  Instead of being an overbearing bully and forcing this on people they should have concentrated on education and they should have done that a VERY long time ago.

Making alcohol cost more isn't going to stop most people consuming it, it's just going to hit people who want to drink in the pocket and they'll be resentful.  Probably something to consider next time there's a general election.

People will find a way and there has already talk of booze cruises to the border towns of England. There's never been a better time to own an off licence in Berwick Upon Tweed apparently!  For me, I'll probably brew more beer at home with my malt and hops bought in England of course!  Invite a few friends around for some free beer and good times.  No money going to the tax man or this over zealous government.  Was that their intention?