Tory MP tables EDM to ban cheap supermarket booze

A Conservative MP has tabled an Early Day Motion (EDM) calling on the Government to ban supermarkets from selling alcohol at rock bottom prices.

Nigel Evans, vice chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group, criticised Asda in particular for selling Skol lager for 90p a can: cheaper than bottled water.

The EDM "encourages all supermarkets to cease this practice immediately; recognises the negative effect that this has on the brewing and pub industries, with 36 pub closures a week; and calls on the Government to look at the pricing policy of beers in supermarkets as opposed to public houses".

The Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR), which has been a vocal critic of what it describes as "reckless" supermarket pricing, welcomed the EDM.

"Supermarket chains have argued that their priority is to offer good value to customers across the board but this is a cynical and disingenuous position which fails to recognise that alcohol is a special case," said Nick Bish, ALMR chief executive.

"In its current review of responsible alcohol sales practice, the Government really must consider the pricing of alcohol in supermarkets, and ban below-cost selling. This can easily be incorporated into its proposed statutory Code of Practice on responsible selling, which must be applied to both the on and off trade."

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By Daniel Thomas

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