UK: no evidence found that MUP implemented in 2018 led to reduction in harmful consumption

The Scottish government tasked Public Health Scotland with evaluating the impact of minimum unit pricing (MUP) for alcohol beverages that was implemented in May 2018 and is currently set at £0.50 per unit of alcohol. Drawing on data from multiple sources, before and after implementation, including more than 700 quantitative interviews, more than 170 qualitative interviews, and analysis of survey data from over 100,000 participants, the study found a marked increase in the prices paid for alcohol by people with alcohol dependence and those drinking at harmful levels after the introduction of MUP, but no clear evidence of any change in consumption or severity of dependence.