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Court cases for underage booze sales rocket - Burstow
October 9, 2005 12:00 AM
The number of pub and off-licence owners taken to court for selling alcohol to under 18s has more than quadrupled in nine years, according to figures released to Liberal Democrat MP Paul Burstow.
Over 600 individuals had proceedings taken out against them for selling intoxicating liquor to under 18s in 2003, compared to less than 140 in 1994.
Paul Burstow MP commented:
"These figures add to the growing mass of evidence showing teen drinking spiralling out of control.
"This is of particular concern with new laws coming into force next month permitting more shops and supermarkets to serve alcohol into the early hours.
"A much more aggressive campaign of test purchasing is needed to identify all pubs and off-licences still willing to serve teenagers alcohol. It is vital that landlords and other suppliers show willing to refuse to sell unless proof of age is provided."
ENDS.
Notes to editors
1. Figures on prosecutions for selling alcohol to under 18s from Parliamentary answer to Paul Burstow, Hansard 12 July: Column 910W
Number of defendant proceeded against for selling intoxicating liquor to persons under 18 for consumption on the premises*
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998
138 198 251 215 311
1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
205 132 158 170 616
- Includes wholesaler selling intoxicating liquid to a person under 18
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