Today it was announced there have been 1,277 alcohol related deaths and we send our condolences to those who have lost a loved one. We believe more can be done prevent this unnecessary loss of life.

A minimum unit price on alcohol has a place in reducing harm to the general population and people that use alcohol in a hazardous way.

In addition to this policy, more targeted approaches are needed to help people with the most harmful patterns of alcohol use, a symptom of wider societal disadvantage.

We would support the Scottish Government investing in evidenced approaches that strengthen support and treatment targeting these individuals most at risk.