Drink industry attacks new alliance

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About 21 organisations, headed by the Royal College of Physicians' president, will form the new campaign group later this month.

They will reportedly lobby for tighter regulation of the drinks industry - including a 10% increase in alcohol taxation.

Five drinks industry bodies have written a letter of criticism to Professor Ian Gilmore, president of the Royal College of Physicians and chairman of the new alliance.

"We are questioning some of the basic assumptions at the heart of this campaign, because we do not believe the evidence base supports the call for higher taxes, more regulation and health warnings," the letter says.

"Indeed, our experience from around the world strongly suggests that the measures you are seeking carry considerable risk of exacerbating the situation."

The letter is signed by British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) chief executive Rob Hayward on behalf of the BBPA, the Gin & Vodka Association, the National Association of Cider Makers, the Scotch Whisky Association and the Wine and Spirit Trade Association.

It is believed the Alcohol Health Alliance will also lobby for health warning labels on booze.

A Royal College of Physicians' spokeswoman said the Alliance was made up of more than 20 groups and would officially launch later this month.

Full details of its members and policies have not yet been announced, although Alcohol Concern and the British Liver Trust are reportedly part of the coalition.