Peter asks: Why are you not going after alcohol companies like you are tobacco companies

Thanks for your question Peter. You’re right, we have very a different stance in our approach to the two habits. That’s because any amount of smoking is harmful, whereas a small amount of alcohol is not.

The evidence on smoking is clear. It’s estimated that nearly a third of our heart attacks are caused by smoking. It’s a killer habit and we make no bones about saying it loud and clear.

The situation with alcohol is more layered. For example, one or two drinks a day does not increase your risk of heart and circulatory disease. Excessive or binge drinking is bad for your health, and that’s why we’ve taken part in campaigns to encourage drinkers to do so in moderation.