This new approach by the government to increase the duty and tax of high strength beer will help the Public Health Department in ways more than one.
 

Alcohol related lifestyle issues and untimely death caused due to negligence are haunting many a countries. Statistics have shown that more than 1.6 million people depend on alcohol. Many Governments' in first world countries are getting really worried about the increasing drinking habits of their citizens. So much so, that they have urged their people to take responsibility for their health - and of course, the Government is going to do their bit too.

Changing the behaviour of drinkers

Downing Street has announced that taxes on high-strength beer will be increased soon. This move has been termed as part of the Government's initiative to encourage responsible drinking. They have mentioned that it is an 'attempt to change the behaviour of drinkers'. The public health 'white paper' also aims at 'empowering communities' with the strong support and help of local governing bodies, to help tackle issues like smoking, obesity and lack of exercise. The Home Office, is also doing its share by hiking the liquor cost. The revised rates will be effective from autumn 2011.

Strong beer, with more that 7.5% alcohol will be  the most popular drink in Britain will cost higher. But, the cost of beer which has less than 2.8% alcohol will be reduced, which will increase the production of less alcoholic beer.

The new rates

The difference in the prices will soon be announced in the budget session, which is scheduled to take place in spring next year by Chancellor George Osborne. The Prime Minister’s office has however refused to comment on its size, but have mentioned that the tax change will surely be positive move, ad it will be large enough to influence the behaviour of a frequent drinker.