Greater Manchester considers minimum price for alcohol

AGMA wants to make it illegal to sell alcohol for less than 50p a unit

Greater Manchester's local councils are considering creating a minimum price for the sale of alcohol in the region, it has been announced.

The Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA) wants to create a by-law to set a minimum price.

It would make it illegal to sell alcohol for less than 50p per unit in shops and bars in the region.

Ian Ratcliffe, from Stockport Council, said AGMA was looking at the idea and would report back in October.

He added: "Putting together a model for a by-law is a very complex issue."

'Domino effect'

Under the proposals, drinkers would have to pay at least £6 for a six-pack of lager and £4.50 for a standard bottle of wine.

The plans are designed to cut down on excessive drinking and improve people's health.

But some fear it could lead to people going to neighbouring counties to buy cheap alcohol in bulk.

The government recently outlined plans to overhaul licensing laws, with Home Secretary Theresa May describing alcohol misuse as a major cause of violence.

Measures include making it easier for communities to influence licensing decisions in England and Wales, with retailers selling alcohol to children receiving tougher penalties.

Andy Walker, of wellbeing and health organisation Our Life, said he hoped a by-law in Greater Manchester would be passed and create a "domino effect" nationally.