Minimum alcohol price could be dropped as ministers waver

The Government may be forced to drop plans for a proposed 45p per unit minimum price on alcohol after it emerged some ministers did not support the measure.

The Home Office is currently considering responses to a 10-week consultation on the proposed move, which is supported by Prime Minister David Cameron.

Medical experts have argued that the introduction of a minimum price would reduce the levels of alcohol-related illness and crime, and prevent "pre-loading" with cut price drink before nights out.

But some ministers within the Cabinet want the plans to be dropped, including Home Secretary Theresa May, Education Secretary Michael Gove, and Commons leader Andrew Lansley, according to the BBC.

However there has been no official word that the plans have been dropped.

Scottish Government postpones minimum pricing in face of legal action >>
Government accused of ‘moving the goalposts' over minimum pricing >>
Stonegate boss warns minimum pricing would spell ‘disaster' for pubs >>