Whisky firms challenge minimum cost

Jul 19 2012

The law on minimum pricing for alcohol is being challenged in the courts by the drinks industry.

The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) is launching legal action against the Scottish Government's legislation which would see a minimum unit price of 50p.

The association, which represents the whisky industry in Scotland, is lodging a complaint with the European Commission and pursuing action through the Court of Session in Scotland.

Holyrood passed the Alcohol Minimum Pricing Bill in May, which the Government said is aimed at helping to address alcohol misuse.

The SWA says it believes the measure is illegal, ineffective and will damage the Scotch whisky industry.

Chief executive Gavin Hewitt said the association's action was backed by other UK and European Union wine, beer and spirits organisations.