§ Mr. David PorterTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has had recently on under-age drinking in pubs and clubs; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggSince 1 March we have received some 80 letters either calling for tougher action to curb under-age drinking or criticising the provisions of the Licensing Act 1988 which strengthen the law on the sale of alcohol to those under the age of 18.
In our opinion these are crucial provisions which should enable landlords, police and prosecuting authorities to act more effectively to curb a serious mischief. We shall be urging this course in our forthcoming circular to magistrates and the police, which will also encompass other provisions of the licensing laws which we believe could be more robustly used.
§ Mr. David PorterTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received recently from licensed victuallers and others seeking an identity card system for young people.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggWe have received recently some representations from licensed victuallers and members of586W the public in support of local identity card schemes for young people. I am aware of a number of such voluntary schemes for young people around the country which are led and financed by local licensees or licensed victuallers associations with the co-operation of the police. I am pleased to see licensees and the police working together on initiatives of this kind and welcome the introduction of voluntary schemes which take full account of local circumstances.