Alcohol consumption in the UK fell by 3.2% in 2008, saving the economy £804m, according to new research published today.
The British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA), which compiled the figures using data from HM Revenue & Customs, said that the fall confirmed the pattern of a downward trend in alcohol levels since 2004.
The trade body said that the statistics showed that there could be no justification for further punitive alcohol tax increases and red tape on pubs.
The data also revealed that alcohol consumption was 6% lower in 2008 than in 2004 and that levels had fallen by 4.6% since the introduction of the 2005 Licensing Act, saving the economy £2.3bn over the last three years.
The BBPA said that the analysis showed that the reduced levels of consumption recorded in 2008 could save the British economy £8bn over 10 years even without any further decreases in drinking levels.
Mark Hastings, BBPA director of communications, said: “These figures show that the persistent perception of rising alcohol consumption in the UK is false. The amount we drink as a nation is falling and this is now a consistent trend since the introduction of the Licensing Act in 2005.”
“Based on the government’s own method of calculating alcohol related harm, the figures show that current trends are cutting billions from the nation’s alcohol harm bill.
“This calls into question the case for pressing ahead with further punitive increases in tax increases and costly red tape, as the government seems determined to do. Government policy should be based on the facts not reflect the myths on alcohol.
“The current economic downturn is undoubtedly having a depressive effect on consumption. However, it is equally the case that what is now an established four year downward trend has been heavily influenced by the consistent communication of responsible drinking messaging.
“The industry’s investment in and promotion of responsible drinking messages to consumers and initiatives like Drinkaware is helping people make more informed and better choices about their drinking patterns and behaviours.”
