Drop duty free and ticket prices could rise, says Condor

TICKET prices are likely to rise if duty free alcohol is scrapped, according to ferry operator Condor.

This year's health report recommended scrapping duty free sales to improve the health and wellbeing of the island's population, but the ferry operator said the loss of revenue would be likely to impact on ticket prices.

Condor Channel Islands general manager Yan Milner said sales of alcohol on its ships were already limited and regulated.

'We ensure all passengers can only buy alcohol within the limits that are set by Guernsey Customs.

'Duty free alcohol sales in Guernsey can only represent a small percentage of overall sales of alcohol,' he said, and therefore the effect of preventing duty free sales would be insignificant.

Public health director Dr Stephen Bridgman is keen to see moves made to tackle alcohol abuse.

He says the substance remains the major cause of ill health in the Bailiwick and causes more than 20 deaths a year in Guernsey.

The recommendation also has implications for the island's airlines. It is in addition to the suggestion that States-owned airline Aurigny should stop selling cigarettes.