News

Since the end of November, as part of a Government-led campaign to clamp down on underage alcohol sales in the run up to Christmas, Trading Standards Officers in Poole have been supervising test purchases with underage volunteers.

21 undercover checks were made on retailers of alcohol to ensure that businesses and their staff are complying with the law on the sale of alcohol, by refusing to sell to those under 18-years-old. Sales were made to 13-year-olds in five shops (an illegal sales rate of 24%), including two convenience stores which are part of national chains. Each of the cases is now being investigated by Trading Standards Officers and licensees could face a fine of up to £5000 and a review of the licences of the premises will be considered.

Shaun Robson, Head of Environmental & Consumer Protection, Borough of Poole, said: "We want to make sure that those who sell alcohol to underage young people are penalised so that we reduce the possibility of young people in Poole getting hold of alcohol illegally. It's a criminal offence to sell alcohol to under 18s. We carry out test purchasing to try and ensure the health and wellbeing of under 18s as well as working towards stopping anti-social behaviour by preventing young people having access to alcohol. All of our test purchases were made to female volunteers."

Under 18s should be aware that if they try to buy alcohol they are also breaking the law and can be fined up to £1000 if convicted, or an 'on-the-spot' fine of £50. It is illegal to attempt to purchase on behalf of an under 18 and adults caught purchasing alcohol to supply youngsters in this way can be fined or prosecuted, as can staff making the sale.

Cllr Don Collier, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for the Environment, Borough of Poole, said: "It is a concern to us that such a high percentage of retailers were found to have flouted the law. Underage alcohol sales are illegal and we will not hesitate to take action, and if necessary, prosecute those who break the law."