SHAAP has submitted a response to the UK Government HM Treasury/HMRC Consultation on the introduction of the new Soft Drinks Industry Levy. Question 11 in the consultation concerns added-sugar low-alcohol products.
In the response, we welcome the proposals to include these products in the Levy and argue that the Levy should be set at a level which does not discourage a shift in consumption patterns to lower strength alcohol products. However, we express concern that inclusion of added-sugar low alcohol products in the Levy may result in these produts being viewed as soft drinks rather than alcohol products.