Tons of newsprint are devoted to castigating the UK’s love affair with booze.
There are, however, many nations with an even greater dedication to beer, wine and spirits.
British alcohol consumption, at 10.2 litres per head, is below the European average.
In Western Europe, consumption is highest in Austria and France at more than 12 litres; in Italy it is just 6.9 litres.
Source: European Commission and letter in The Times, 2nd February 2016.