The Scotch Whisky Association wants people to be able to sell its potent potable at whatever price they see fit, and it’s filing a complaint with the EU alleging that Scotland’s plan to set a minimum price per drink is illegal.
In May, Scotland announced it wanted to set a minimum price of 50 pence (80 cents) per unit of alcohol to fight binge drinking.
The association said today that the minimum price would be ineffective in combating abuse, would penalise responsible drinkers, and would damage the industry.
It said it was taking action in Scottish courts as well as filing a complaint with the European Commission, the EU’s executive branch.
The association says the minimum price would artificially distort trade in the alcohol market, contrary to EU law.