By Martin Beckford
BRITS pay some of the highest “sin taxes” in Europe, a report found.
Smokers are hit by the most expensive duty on tobacco while drinkers pay the second-highest rates on wine and beer.
Overall, the UK is the fourth-worst country out of 28 in the Nanny State Index, compiled by think tank the Institute of Economic Affairs.
And its experts claim there is no proof the tough laws make Britain a healthier place.
Christopher Snowdon, of the IEA, said: “The war on fun is all pain and no gain.”
The report says the Government’s approach to regulating food, soft drinks, tobacco and booze is “highly paternalistic”.
It adds the only area where Britain is liberal is vaping, which is not taxed like cigs.
