Sir, – Dr Vincent Kenny (December 17th) points to a "statistical correlation" between alcohol outlet density and health harms as disclosed in a recent Scottish study. Correlation and causation are quite different. Indeed, the authors of the study to which he refers expressly state that, "We cannot conclude that the relationship is causal" and point to the need for "further analyses" and "better quality time-series licensing statistics". – Yours, etc,
JACK CUMMINS,
Glasgow.
Sir, – The concern about excessive alcohol consumption is not new, nor particularly Irish. In the 18th century, the British elite expressed horror at the alcohol consumption of the “lower classes” in London, with gin being of particular concern.
Now, we again express our concern at cheap alcohol – with even the working class drinking cheap wine! Who knows where it will end? Cheap cognac? It is time to act and make sure that cognac remains the reserve of the bankers we bailed out. – Yours, etc,
GEARÓID Ó LOINGSIGH,
Bogotá, Colombia.