It is a widely observed mantra in such lofty circles that making booze more expensive will alleviate many social problems.
Well, for every plus point - there are two negatives. Let us consider some facts in the face of some rather dubious claims:
1) Alcohol in pubs is absurdly expensive.
2) In supermarkets it is NOT cheap - merely cheapER.
3) Alcoholics will pay the price whatever that happens to be.
4) Young louts on binges will pay the price - whatever that is. A certain level of insobriety MUST be achieved.
5) How about a pensioner who 'enjoys a tipple' but is on a low income. What do they do? - Either do without or turn the heating down, perhaps?
The shrill voices will now be raised pointing out that 'alcohol consumption has been proved to fall' with higher prices levied.
Yes, indeed - but where is the fall found most? - Amongst moderate drinkers on an average income and those OAPs, of course! As usual - for the wealthy, there is no problem.
