Leader: Supermarket's small but welcome measure
Already critics have dismissed the Asda move as a "publicity stunt" while others accuse the supermarkets of giving nominal support to avoid more severe action being taken by both Westminster and Holyrood governments. It is certainly true - as we have argued here - that the minimum pricing strategy would not of itself turn round Scotland's booze culture and bring about a big drop in alcohol consumption among heavy drinkers. Such a result is going to require a wholesale cultural change with a concerted push on many fronts. But the statement by Asda does mark the start of a recognition of the problem that rock bottom alcohol pricing is causing to homes and communities. As such it should be welcomed as a positive first step, with other supermarkets encouraged to follow. Even if the Scottish Government still struggles to get its policy into legislation, a long period of excise duty increases looks to be in store.