Minimum unit pricing for alcohol could already be having a ‘significant’ effect among the heaviest drinkers in Glasgow, according to research being presented at a conference in the city today.

Experts believe a 20% reduction in alcohol-related deaths in Scotland’s largest city from 2017 to 2018, from 186 to 146, could be down to the public health reform, which was introduced in May 2018.

Speaking at the British Association for the Study of the Liver (BASL) gathering in Glasgow, Dr Ewan Forrest said: “Glasgow has always had much higher levels of alcohol-related deaths than other parts of Scotland.

“This latest information suggests that MUP may be reducing alcohol-related harm in those at highest risk.  More time is needed to assess the effect of MUP on the rest of Scotland and to get a clearer idea as to how MUP might affect the rest of the UK.”

Professor Matthew Cramp, BASL president, added: “This early evidence suggests that implementing MUP does exactly what it is supposed to – it is a highly targeted measure that improves the health of the heaviest drinkers and those experiencing the most harm from alcohol whilst those who drink in moderation continue much as before.”

MUP, which was delayed until 2018 after a lengthy legal battle, stipulates that all alcohol sold in shops and supermarkets must be above a 50p-per-unit price.

Health charities and public health campaigners supported the move, which was opposed by the alcohol industry.

One preliminary study found retailers were generally complying with the new regulations, while figures for 2018 showed drink sales had fallen to a 25-year low.

Experts believe there are ‘important implications’ for the rest of the UK.

Pamela Healy of the British Liver Trust said: “We are facing a liver disease epidemic in the UK and a major reason for this is that as a nation we are drinking too much alcohol.

“There is good evidence that interventions such as MUP, targeted taxes and marketing regulations reduce alcohol harm. Alcohol taxes have been cut repeatedly in real terms. The government needs to look carefully at the outcomes from Scotland on MUP so that more lives can be saved."