Calls for “Booze and Fags” tax on supermarkets as health groups make plea to SNP Government

Health groups urge SNP Government to impose “Booze and Fags” tax on supermarkets
A coalition of health organisations is calling on the SNP Government to introduce a new tax on supermarkets selling alcohol and tobacco products. This move comes as health campaigners argue for higher business rates to generate crucial funding for treatment and to save lives. Finance Secretary Shona Robison is currently in discussions with opposition parties in preparation for the upcoming Budget on December 4th.

In a letter addressed to Robison, the Non-Communicable Diseases Alliance Scotland is advocating for a “public health supplement” specifically targeting retailers that sell products known to have adverse effects on health. Shockingly, in 2023, 1,277 deaths in Scotland were attributed to alcohol, marking the highest number in 15 years.

The Alliance, composed of twenty-four organisations, highlights estimations suggesting that nearly £60 million could be raised through this tax, with major supermarket chains bearing 86% of the revenue impact. NCD Alliance Chair David McColgan emphasised the significant costs imposed on society by health-harming products, including alcohol, tobacco, and unhealthy food, which have substantial consequences for the healthcare system and the economy.

The proposal for a “polluter pays” levy aims to support initiatives for healthier families, invest in early detection programmes for liver disease, and implement cessation programs in deprived areas to combat smoking. Laura Mahon, Deputy Chief Executive of Alcohol Focus Scotland, endorsed the introduction of a levy on retailers selling alcohol products, highlighting the urgent need to address the alcohol crisis in Scotland, which recently saw alcohol-specific deaths reach a 15-year peak.

Pamela Healy OBE, Chief Executive of the British Liver Trust, stressed the necessity of taking bold action to tackle the surge in liver disease deaths in Scotland, particularly in the context of early diagnosis and alcohol harm reduction. Professor Ewan Forrest, a consultant liver specialist, accentuated the benefits of early detection in preventing avoidable deaths due to alcohol-related liver disease and motivating individuals to address their alcohol consumption.

Ewan MacDonald-Russell, Deputy Head of the Scottish Retail Consortium, voiced opposition to additional taxes on retailers, citing the significant tax burden already borne by the industry. However, Green MSP Gillian Mackay supported the notion of retailers contributing towards mitigating the health and social costs associated with the sale of harmful products.

The Scottish Government confirmed intentions to explore the reintroduction of a non-domestic rates Public Health Supplement for large retailers in the upcoming budget. The engagement with stakeholders aims to ensure informed decision-making regarding the potential impacts of this supplement.

In conclusion, the proposal for a “Booze and Fags” tax on supermarkets has sparked a contentious debate between health advocates and retailers, underscoring the complex balance between public health objectives and economic considerations. As the Budget approaches, the decision on implementing this tax will undoubtedly influence the healthcare landscape in Scotland and set a precedent for health-promoting policies in the retail sector.