§ 28. Mr. GallieTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to reduce under-age drinking in public places in Scotland; and if he will make a statement. [801]
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonUnder-age drinking is a cause for concern in any context. The Health Education Board for Scotland continues to promote a range of materials aimed at educating young people about the risks of excessive or inappropriate drinking. We are also looking, together with other Government Departments, at what steps might be taken to address the problem of so-called designer alcoholic products associated with under-age drinking.
We are also concerned to reduce the problem of nuisance caused by people of any age drinking in public places and have invited local authorities to propose byelaws to address this by making it an offence to drink in designated public places. We have so far confirmed byelaws in six local authority areas. Many other authorities are in the process of preparing proposals.