Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Wales Proposes Minimum Alcohol Price Hike to Combat Harm

2/4/2026

46 10 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Welsh government proposes raising the minimum unit price (MUP) for alcohol from 50p to 65p, with effect from October.
The changes would raise prices: lager from £1 to at least £1.30, cider from £2.50 to £3.25, and whisky from £14 to £18.20.
Welsh ministers say the policy aims to reduce alcohol-related harm and align Wales with Scotland, while the Conservative Party argues it harms consumers without alcohol problems.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Welsh government proposes raising the minimum unit price (MUP) for alcohol from 50p to 65p, with effect from October.
The changes would raise prices: lager from £1 to at least £1.30, cider from £2.50 to £3.25, and whisky from £14 to £18.20.
Welsh ministers say the policy aims to reduce alcohol-related harm and align Wales with Scotland, while the Conservative Party argues it harms consumers without alcohol problems.