Diana Johnson MP
 
09:51 (9 minutes ago)
 

 
to me
 
 
 
 
 

Dear Kerry , 

Many thanks for your email regarding the cost and availability of alcohol-free and low alcohol drinks.
 
I recognise that many people choose not to drink alcohol, whether for health, religious, or personal reasons, and that it is important for venues and retailers to provide inclusive and affordable options for all consumers.
 
With regard to pricing, alcohol-free and low-alcohol beverages are subject to standard VAT, the same rate as most soft drinks. Unlike alcoholic beverages, they are not subject to alcohol duty, which can make them cheaper at the wholesale level. However, retail pricing decisions are ultimately a matter for individual businesses, who will consider a range of factors including production costs, branding, and demand when setting prices.
 
I am encouraged by the growing availability of alcohol-free and low-alcohol options across the hospitality and retail sectors and by efforts to promote responsible drinking, especially as we want to also address issues such as drink driving.
 
Expanding consumer choice can help people moderate their alcohol intake and make healthier choices, but I agree that it would be a positive development for the prices for non-alcoholic drinks to be below that of their alcoholic equivalents.
 
I am happy to pass on your comments to the relevant Minister within the Treasury, if you wish?

You can also go to the following link to sign up for my updates on local news and campaigns: https://www.dianajohnson.co.uk/signup 

Best wishes, 

Rt Hon Dame Diana Johnson DBE
Labour Member of Parliament for Kingston upon Hull North and Cottingham
Minister of State at the Department for Work and Pensions
 
House of Commons
London
SW1A 0AA