Response to Coalition Agreement

GREENE KING plc

Response to Coalition Agreement

Greene King, one of the countries leading pub operators and brewers, today gave a cautious welcome to the coalition government's proposals to tackle irresponsible drinking but urged the Government to go further on the issue of minimum pricing to create a 'radical change' in drinking culture in the UK.

It is calling on the Government to urgently review minimum pricing and below cost price sales particularly in the run up to the World Cup where supermarkets are again already offering cheap deals on bulk buys of alcohol.

Rooney Anand, Greene King's chief executive, comments: "Excessive drinking by a minority of alcohol consumers is fuelled by its availability at heavily discounted prices, particularly high strength alcohol products and lager brands brought off-trade.

"Changing alcohol taxation may go some way to addressing some of these issues, but we would urge the government to explore further the minimum pricing route, which, if targeted at appropriate products, would ensure that the pensioner enjoying a glass of sherry would not be penalised, nor lovers of ale who want to enjoy a pint or two in their local or in the comfort of their own homes.

"We need to ensure a level playing field for all who sell alcohol. Responsible retailers should have nothing to fear."

For further information: