Jersey’s health officer welcomes spirits duty hikes

Plans to increase duty on spirits by 21.7p per litre in Jersey have been welcomed by a medical officer of health.

Jersey’s 2015 Budget could see duty on spirits increase by 21.7p per litre

Doctor Susan Turnbull said it would help tackle harmful drinking, particulary on an island that has previously had “notable” alcohol-related health harm statistics, the BBC reported.

However, local pub owners have criticised the proposals, arguing the hike in taxes could affect tourism.

If successful, the 2015 Budget will also see an increase in alcohol tax on wine by up to 2.4p per bottle, by 2.2p per pint for standard cider and by 1p per pint for beer.

Treasury minister Philip Ozouf introduced the budget on Friday, three months early.

It is scheduled to be debated by politicians in September following the States’ summer break.

In April this year, the island’s Health Profile for Jersey noted high alcohol consumption, which was linked to high rates of liver disease.

In October last year, the Australian Health Minister argued tax levies would not cut alcohol consumption.