ACS

Local shops have welcomed the Department for Children Schools and Families initiative to educate young people against underage drinking. The new measures including a national football tournament, best practice guide for local authorities and money to enforce new police powers.

However, ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) has sounded a note of caution about new funding for enforcement measures targeted at shops included in the announcement.

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “We welcome Government action aimed at changing young people’s drinking habits. Funding for activities and new resources to educate parents are all steps in the right direction.”

“We have urged Ministers to prevent the extra money being used to fund additional test purchasing campaigns instead we need a more inclusive approach. Actions will only be successful if local shops are seen as a partner in the solution and not simply a target for enforcement. ”