Bulgaria Objects to Scottish Plans to Ban Cheap Alcohol

Wine producers in Bulgaria are worried that their UK exports might be adversely affected by the move. File photo

Bulgaria has objected the Scottish government's plans to introduce minimum alcohol pricing, a move intended to curb alcohol abuse in the country.

The Balkan country has lodged its objections with the European Commission. Wine producers in Bulgaria are worried that their UK exports might be adversely affected by the move.

The Scottish government wants to set a floor price of 50p per unit. The measure was passed by Scottish lawmakers earlier in 2012 but concern was raised that it may fall foul of European trade rules.

As This Is Money has pointed out, even if the EC decides the Scottish government's plans are lawful, a host of other trade bodies and retailers are poised to launch legal challenges of their own, either via judicial reviews or actions in the courts.

The EC has extended a consultation period that allows other EU member states to oppose the plans by three months to December 27.

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