RCN urges government to continue its commitment to minimum pricing

Published: 13 March 2013

The Royal College of Nursing has urged the Government to stand firm in its commitment to introduce a minimum unit price for alcohol in England and Wales.

The RCN points to evidence which shows that incidences of liver disease, one of the biggest killers in the UK, are increasing.

Dr Peter Carter, RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary, said: “Nursing staff see the terrible effects of alcohol abuse first-hand, both from the strain it places on A&E units every weekend and the long-term diseases which are entirely preventable.”

The RCN believes a minimum unit price would be an effective preventative measure that would reduce much of the strain and the associated costs to the health service.