Sutcliffe scoop sparks media frenzy
The MA's exclusive and controversial interview with licensing minister Gerry Sutcliffe has sparked a frenzy in the national media.
In the interview, Sutcliffe told MA editor Andrew Pring that the Chancellor might re-think automatic duty rises in the next four Budgets.
But only if industry lobbying "gets its act together".
Asked by the Morning Advertiser if lobbying on duty was now a waste of time, following the inflation plus 2% formula announced in last month's Budget, Sutcliffe said: "You say that, but we've had examples like the fuel levy where the impact on a sector has been massive — and the decision has been deferred.
"I'm not saying that will happen, but that's where the trade needs to focus the basis of its argument."
The MA has been inundated by calls and emails from the national press.
Opposition MPs have also got in on the act.
Liberal Democrat shadow Culture, Media and Sport Secretary, Don Foster said: "The Government's policy on tackling binge drinking is a shambles.
"It's hardly surprising that binge drinking is on the rise when the Government has no clear message on alcohol policy.
"While ministers bicker over the level of duty, alcohol related crime is on the increase, A&E admissions have soared, and people are continuing to get away with selling alcohol to children.
"The Government has clearly run out of ideas about how to tackle the drink problem in this country."
Already the Guardian, Sky News and the BBC are covering the story.
Read the articles here:
• Guardian: Minister urges publicans to challenge alcohol tax rises
• Sky News: Minister Challenges Booze Duty Rises
• BBC: Minister attacks alcohol tax rise
Read the MA's exclusive scoop here:
