The timescale for the introduction of minimum pricing to outlaw cheap drink here remains uncertain despite the legal path being cleared for the same law to be imposed in Northern Ireland.
The UK Supreme Court ruled yesterday that Scotland can set a minimum price for alcohol, rejecting a challenge by the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA).
Legislation was approved by the Scottish Parliament five years ago but has been tied up in court challenges. In a unanimous judgment, seven Supreme Court judges said the legislation did not breach European Union law.
The challenge had meant that minimum pricing proposals were put on hold in the UK, including Northern Ireland.
Health Minister Simon Harris has said the plan is for minimum pricing in the Republic to coincide with its introduction in the North to avoid an exodus of shoppers across the Border.
Source: Eilish O'Regan, 16/11/17
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