(TDB) - Wales is expected to follow Scotland’s example and implement minimum alcohol unit pricing, with the bill set to be voted on in the Senedd today.

If passed, and if Wales also opts to set the minimum unit price at 50 pence, the bill means that a can of cider would cost at least £1 and a bottle of wine £4.69.

Initially proposed by public health minister, Rebecca Evans, cabinet secretary for health and social services, Vaughan Gething, was put in charge of the bill following a change in ministerial portfolios in November 2017.

The bill passed stage 3 of the approval process last week (12 June) which involved a detailed consideration of the bill by the Welsh Assembly and a series of amendments being suggested. The bill as it stands post-stage 3 can be viewed here. 

If passed, the Welsh government will open up a public consultation as to what the minimum price should be, with the aim of introducing the bill in 2019.

As reported by the BBC, alcohol sold below 50p per unit accounts for 72% of beer sales in Welsh shops and supermarkets, 78% of cider sales, 42% of wine sales and 66% of the spirits.