tax on alcopops
March 7, 2008
A 50p tax would be imposed on alcopops like Bacardi Breezer or Smirnoff Ice, and super-brew beers such as Carlsberg Special Brew or Tennents Super could increase by 32p, as part of a Conservative initiative to reduce their consumption.The move comes amid increasing concerns about binge drinking by younger people.
The proposed trebling of duty on alcopops would add 54p to the £2.50 price of a 275ml bottle of Bacardi Breezer.
Shadow chancellor George Osborne, who is due to unveil further details of the plans, said the Treasury would not take in any extra revenue as a result of the changes. He said the cash raised would be recycled into tax cuts for low-alcohol beers and ciders.
Mr Osborne has timed the announcement to intensify the pressure on Alistair Darling to take action in next week’s Budget.
Most of Britain’s favourite beers, such as John Smith’s and Guinness, and ciders like Strongbow and Magner’s, wines and spirits, will not be affected.
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