A ban on selling alcohol below the cost of duty plus VAT is expected to come into force by the end of May.
M&C Report’s sister title the Publican’s Morning Advertiser understands the Government approved the order yesterday meaning it will have to be implemented within the next two weeks.
Under the regulation a 440ml can of 4% ABV beer will now have to cost at least 41p, a 750ml bottle of 11.5% ABV wine will cost at least £2.41, while at least £13.55 must be charged for a litre of 40% ABV spirits.
Failure to comply with the new regulations, which would take the form of mandatory licence conditions, may result in a licence review or closure notice.
A Home Office spokesman said: “The coalition government is determined to tackle alcohol-fuelled harm, which costs society around £21 billion a year.
“The ban on the sale of alcohol below duty plus VAT will stop the worst examples of very cheap and harmful drink and is part of a wide range of action we are taking. The ban will come into effect as soon as parliamentary time allows.”
