Can't Tell, Don't Sell initiative launched in Blackburn

28/08/2009

Pubs and shops in Blackburn are working alongside Community Action - Blackburn, West Lothian Council and the Local Licensing Forum to help reduce the incidence of underage drinking. They will require those who appear to be under the age of 21 to produce proof of age identification and will also be more vigilant to the problem surrounding adults purchasing alcohol on behalf of those under age. The Licensing Standards Officer has provided training to members of staff within all local licensed premises and they will also receive support from the Local Licensing Forum and Lothian & Borders Police.

The initiative is based on the production of one of three acceptable forms of proof of age identification which are:

- ID Cards with the Pass Logo

- EU Photocard Driving Licence

- Passport

Any adult found to be purchasing alcohol on behalf of those under the age of 18 years will be prosecuted with the punishment being a fine up to £1000 and in some instances imprisonment.

The initiative is being supported by Ashley Brown, Miss West Lothian, who along with her fellow contestants produced a 2009 calendar highlighting the harm associated with alcohol misuse.

Alison Kerr, Chairperson, Community Action - Blackburn, said:

"Concerns surrounding the issue of under-agers being able to purchase alcohol and adults purchasing alcohol on their behalf, were highlighted in the results from the community consultation undertaken in 2008. Even more concerning was the fact that a conference, held earlier this year by the P7 pupils from the three Blackburn Primary Schools, highlighted the problem with regard to under-agers being able to purchase alcohol from the local shops. They were so concerned that they worked together to produce a poster highlighting the problem and reminding shop staff that if you "Can't Tell, Don't Sell"."

Margot Ferguson, Chair of West Lothian Local Alcohol Licensing Forum said:

"It is very worrying that P7 pupils have real concerns about older people buying alcohol for young people but they are to be encouraged and applauded for wanting to do something for their local community. Agent purchase is a very difficult practice to tackle. The Licensing Forum commends the partnership approach from the police, West Lothian Council and local shopkeepers to tackle the problem in the Blackburn area. Hopefully other areas in West Lothian will also adopt this approach."

Inspector Michaela Kerr from Lothian and Borders Police said:

"I am delighted the community in Blackburn recognises the impact under-age drinking and the supply of alcohol to children can have on the quality of life of residents in the area. Not only does alcohol misuse lead to antisocial behaviour, it can also leave our children vulnerable to attack."