ALCOHOL continues to be sold at pocketmoney prices across the North-East despite the impact it is having on health, crime and the wider economy, a price survey has revealed.

The results of the survey coincided with research by Drinkaware which showed that 84 per cent of 18 to 24-year-olds in the region think it is acceptable to get drunk in front of workmates and 67 per cent admit they have done something they regret as a result of drinking too much after work.

Balance, the North-East alcohol office, has conducted a snapshot survey across the region’s supermarkets and found that alcohol is available for as little as 19p a unit.

Although this is higher than a previous price survey last November, which found alcohol on sale from as little as 12p per unit, it means a man can still drink his recommended daily limit (three to four units) for only 76p and a woman can drink at her daily limit (two to three units) for only 57p – well below the average weekly pocket money allowance of £6.25.

Balance is calling for more to be done to protect young people from alcohol harm, which includes introducing a minimum unit price on alcohol. This is being supported by the UK Youth Parliament.

When visiting stores and shopping online the survey found cider from as little as 19p a unit, Lambrini from 22p a unit and lager from as little as 28p a unit.

Colin Shevills, director of Balance, said: “It is frustrating and irresponsible that alcohol continues to be sold at such low prices to sell more and increase profits, regardless of our children’s health and welfare.

“We need to do more. A key part of the solution is the introduction of a minimum unit price, which the Government has backed and will consult on later this year.”