Alcohol vendors face tighter rules on underage drinking

Mon 01 Feb 2010

New rules designed to target licensees who sell alcohol to under-18s have now come into force.

Vendors previously faced fines and licence suspensions in the event of them being caught selling alcohol to underage consumers three times.

However, two strikes will now be sufficient for retailers to face punishment.

This forms part of a wider strategy to tackle the problem of underage drinking, which includes giving police more powers to confiscate alcohol and introducing a new offence for young people who persistently possess alcohol in public.

Home office minister Alan Campbell said the new rules are being implemented alongside a publicity drive designed to change young people's attitudes towards binge drinking.

Schools minister Vernon Coaker added that the measures are also being supported by the provision of activities and places for youngsters to go, thereby giving them "positive alternatives" to drinking.

This comes shortly after the Home Office proposed a mandatory code of conduct for alcohol retailers, which includes ending "irresponsible" drink promotions.

Robert Botkai of Winckworth Sherwood commented: "We have continually reminded clients of the need to be vigilant on underage sales.

"There is no doubt that there will be more licence reviews. Test purchasers are out there. You have been warned!"