[MovedGoalPosts]

I'm not convinced.

There are potential health benefits if alchohol consumption is reduced. Recent reports say incidence of liver desease is increasing dramatically as well as other risks. This is perhaps the similar argument to smoking. Realistically if either alchohol or tabacco had been "discovered" today, rather than centuries ago, would they be legal in any form? Home consumption is ever increasing and whereas for many a take out bottle was possibly a treat for many we might have reached a stage where it is just a normal part of their lifestyle.

There is also the anti social behaviour issue. But is it cheap booze, or simply ease of access to it, combined with a lack of peer pressure for moral responsibility and restraint? The reality is that for many, drinking large quantities is seen as evidence of a good night out, and unless that perception is changed then excess consumption will continue unless pricing is prohibitive. I suspect that can only come from dealing with offenders in a harsher manner.

But if alchohol is priced too high, we know the black market will increase. The Channel Ferry companies will be rubbing their hands with glee at the return of the booze cruise punter.

We do also know that times are tough. Most people are responsible, and take advantage of the cheaper supermarket deals to buy in bulk for consumption over a period of time. Given the general lack of feelgood factor is restricting on one of the few ways seen by a majority as many to relax and enjoy themselves a good idea, simply to deal with a minority?