Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Lord Harrison (Labour). It was answered on Tuesday, 27 October 2009.

Health: Alcohol

Question: Given that the average alcoholic strength of a bottle of wine has risen in recent decades from 11 to 13 per cent, with a commensurate rise in hospital admissions for those with alcohol-related problems, will my noble friend consider lowering the excise duty on lower-strength wines to encourage both sensible drinking and wider, broadened consumer choice?

Answer: My noble friend raises two different points, one of which is to do with consumer choice. It is indeed the case that consumers should be able to choose lower or higher-strength wines. However, it is not for the Government to decide what products retailers should make available. What we think is important is that people understand how strong the drinks are, what advice is relevant to them and the risks of regularly drinking above the lower-risk guidelines. My noble friend’s second point related to taxation. I can say with some accuracy that that is above my pay grade and is a matter for the Chancellor.

Secondary information