The Government has released its annual report: Smoking, Drinking and Drug Use Among Young People in England 2014, showing a continued decline in the number of 11 to 15-year-olds drinking alcohol.
Responding to the news, the ALMR has praised the positive work being done by licensed hospitality across the UK.
ALMR Chief Executive Kate Nicholls said: “The figures highlight the hard work being carried out by pubs and bars across the country to eradicate under-age purchases and to promote responsible consumption.
“Under-age purchases from pubs and bars stand at just 6% compared to almost a quarter for off-licensed premises and that figure has almost halved over the past two decades. Pubs and bars take their legal responsibility very seriously and this report lends weight to the ALMR’s argument that the pub still represents the safest and most secure environment in which to drink. We would like this good work taken into account when prioritising enforcement and, in particular, following calls from police for greater investment in ID scanning equipment.
“That the number of under-age drinkers remains so low is particularly encouraging given the evolving nature of our sector. Licensed premises are increasingly spaces for people of all ages to socialise with more and more emphasis on food. Crucially, we are not seeing an increase in illegal activity as more and more young people choose to eat out and that is very encouraging.”
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