Chamber
Meeting of the Parliament 17 April 2024
17 Apr 2024 · S6 · Meeting of the Parliament
Item of business
Parliamentary Bureau Motions
It cannot be, because the number of alcohol-related deaths is not reducing by any credible measure. Of course, we have seen the SNP spin machine in overdrive over MUP, notably with regard to a key Public Health Scotland report. The trouble is that, in order to grab headlines, the SNP misrepresented the facts. It spun estimates as facts, and it implied that its resounding success was based on and backed by 40 different policies and studies. However, again, that is simply not true. [Interruption.] What is clear—this is important—is that the Public Health Scotland report acknowledges that there was only limited evidence.
In the same item of business
The Presiding Officer (Alison Johnstone)
NPA
The next item of business is consideration of Parliamentary Bureau motions S6M-12871 and S6M-12872, on approval of Scottish statutory instruments. I ask Geor...
Sandesh Gulhane (Glasgow) (Con)
Con
I declare my interest as a practising national health service general practitioner. The Scottish National Party Government might trumpet in this chamber its...
The Presiding Officer
NPA
Let us hear Dr Gulhane.
Sandesh Gulhane
Con
It cannot be, because the number of alcohol-related deaths is not reducing by any credible measure. Of course, we have seen the SNP spin machine in overdrive...
Kevin Stewart (Aberdeen Central) (SNP)
SNP
Will the member take an intervention?
Sandesh Gulhane
Con
No, I will not—members should listen to this. Interruption.
The Presiding Officer
NPA
Let us hear Dr Gulhane.
Sandesh Gulhane
Con
The SNP’s push to increase MUP to 65p, which could result in a price hike of 30 per cent, will disproportionately penalise responsible drinkers on a low inco...
The Minister for Drugs and Alcohol Policy (Christina McKelvie)
SNP
I am glad to have the opportunity to address colleagues across the chamber on minimum unit pricing ahead of this crucial vote. The Parliament has the opportu...
The Presiding Officer
NPA
The question on the motions will be put at decision time.