Controversial measures for a minimum price on alcohol could be introduced on a "try it and see" basis, it has emerged.

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon is proposing the introduction of a sunset clause which would allow the pricing proposals to be tried out to see if they had the desired effect of reducing consumption.

The policy would then be reviewed after a set period.

Ms Sturgeon met with opposition parties to discuss Scotland's drink problem.

The private lunchtime meeting took place at the Scottish Parliament, before the Government publishes the rate at which the minimum price will be set.

She also said the Scottish Government would consider "any workable alternatives" and has asked the opposition parties to submit details on any ideas they had put forward to tackle the problem.

The SNP's controversial legislative proposals to drive up the cost of cheap alcohol by tackling low prices and irresponsible promotions have been widely scorned by opposition parties but welcomed by health professionals.

Other parties favour measures including a crackdown on under-age drinking and increases in tax and duty.

The SNP has used the figure of 40p per unit of alcohol as an illustration of how the minimum pricing mechanism could reduce consumption.

Ms Sturgeon said the parties had agreed that taking action on the cost of alcohol was an "essential part" of tackling drink abuse in Scotland.