Mon, Jun 14, 2004 - Page 6 News List

Scandinavians raise glass to EU, literally

SOCIAL HANGOVER Regulatory changes stemming from EU expansion have allowed cheap booze to enter Nordic countries, posing a dilemma for policy-makers

REUTERS , OSLO

In Norway, Sweden and Finland, wine and liquor are sold at state-run outlets. Norwegian outlets shut extra early on days before public holidays to limit holiday drinking.

In Norway, only half of the liquor consumed is bought at a state outlet. The rest is bought legally abroad, smuggled or made at home.

Toxic home-made alcohol has killed 15 Norwegians since 2002, leading some to question the deterrent value of high taxes if they spur more people to drink illegal moonshine.

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