Ministers have defended controversial plans to ban cheap deals on alcohol in England and Wales, insisting they would save hundreds of lives every year. The coalition is proposing a minimum alcohol price of 45p per unit and an end to multi-buy offers
The coalition will today unveil controversial plans to tackle "drunken mayhem" on Britain's streets by introducing a higher-than-expected minimum alcohol price of 45p per unit.
Multi-buy deals in supermarkets and off-licences could also be banned, under proposals being put out for consultation.
Home Secretary Theresa May is outlining the package in an effort to "turn the tide" on a culture of irresponsible drinking estimated to cost the taxpayer £21 billion annually.
Officials said it was currently possible to buy a can of lager for as little as 20p, and a two litre bottle of cider for £1.69.
Today the government proposed a 45p per alcohol unit price as the minimum shops can sell. It's fired off a long overdue debate.
Drinking in the UK will become more costly under Government plans to bring in a minimum price, but how does it compare with other countries?
The Government is set to impose a minimum alcohol price of 45p per unit. Here is what to expect.