Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon today revealed the minimum price the Scottish Government wants alcohol to be sold at.

She said a price of 45p per unit of alcohol will be imposed on all drinks if the controversial Alcohol Bill is passed.

The price is 5p higher than expected.

Ms Sturgeon said the move will save lives and reduce hospital admissions and was supported by medical experts.

The SNP Government still face a battle to get the Bill through parliament with opposition parties lining up to oppose the move.

Labour wants to see VAT and alcohol duty used to impose a higher price on specific problem drinks rather than a blanket policy.

Ms Sturgeon said: “It is no coincidence that as the affordability of alcohol has plummeted in recent decades, alcohol-related deaths, disease, crime and disorder have spiralled.

“I believe it’s crucial that we reintroduce realistic alcohol pricing.

“It cannot be right that a man can exceed his weekly recommended alcohol limit for less than £3.50.

“Getting the price right is vital for minimum pricing to work. We believe that 45p per unit is the right price.”

Ms Sturgeon said the minimum price would have significant health and social benefits including, over ten years 225 fewer deaths from alcohol-related harm, 4200 fewer hospital admissions and a £83 million reduction in health care costs

The price would increase the cost of strong ciders and lagers, thought to do the most harm to long term problem drinkers.

A 45p per unit minimum would set the price of a 440ml can of strong 9% abv lager at £1.78. It would up the price of a 2 litre bottle of strong 7.5% abv cider to £6.75.

A bottle of whisky would costs a minimum of £12.60 and vodka £11.81. The price would not significantly affect established brand name spirits, but would increase the cost of supermarket brands.

Dr Harry Burns, Scotland’s chief medical officer, said: “Scotland has an unenviable reputation when it comes to alcohol. We are, sadly, world-class when it comes to damaging our health with drink.”