SHOP BOOZE TAX 'COULD RAISE £60M'

Campaigners want share of profits to help NHS treat alcohol addiction

- PAUL HUTCHEON

A TOP health charity has urged John Swinney to slap a booze tax on shops and supermarkets in his upcoming Budget.

Alison Douglas of Alcohol Focus Scotland said higher business rates could raise nearly £60million to fund treatment services.

The minority SNP government will publish its draft budget in December but it is unclear if any opposition party will help get their tax and spend plans over the line.

The Greens are the most likely Budget partner and have demanded the introduction of a suite of extra taxes.

One of their asks is for the government to reintroduce higher taxes on outlets that sell alcohol and tobacco.