FIRST, they will, then they won’t, now they say a decision will be made “after careful evaluation”.

I am talking about the government’s proposals to introduce a minimum price per unit on alcohol, and what appears to be yet another U-turn.

It is understandable that some people feel angry at the plans to introduce minimum pricing. But I agree with the proposals.

There are far too many cheap booze outlets — supermarkets included — and these encourage people to drink at home, because it is much cheaper than going to the pub.

Drinking at home can, and does, lead to excessive drinking. Health experts say this is a growing problem among the elderly.

What the government needs to do is bring in the price per unit on all outdoor sales of alcohol, and at the same time, reduce the tax on alcohol served in pubs — for consumption on the premises — making it cheaper to drink in the pub than anywhere else.

This would encourage people to use the pub, as they once did. The pub could become the hub of the community once again, and as a bonus, only those old enough to drink would have access to the cheaper booze.

We need to save the traditional pub — and underage drinkers. This could help.

Incidentally, Tory MP Sarah Wollaston, a GP, says “the entire medical establishment” support minimum pricing. But will the government listen?

Brian Derbyshire Ribchester Grove Bolton