New laws could affect underage drinking in Scotland

New alcohol laws introduced in Scotland could reduce the levels of underage drinking in the country.

Following the introduction of new drinking legislation in Scotland, it is now an offence to give, or to serve, a child or young person with alcohol in a public place. The restrictions form a part of new legislation entitled Air Weapons and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2015, and have been enforced in an attempt to help police deal with outdoor drinking establishments. There are other measures included in the legislation, including a ‘fit and proper person test’.

The new law means that licensing boards will now have to produce a report detailing their annual income and expenditure on alcohol licensing activities. It is understood that such a report will increase transparency and accountability.

The justice secretary, Michael Matheson said, “While many young people will not undertake underage drinking, we know the groups of young people drinking outside can be an intimidating sight to members of the public and are often linked with a number of public order offences. Furthermore, underage drinking can cause short and long term harm to health, as well as put young people in dangerous situations when drunk.” He added that it is right Police Scotland can now deal with persons who supply alcohol to those who are under age.

Legislation already covered the buying of alcohol for a child, but the new laws will close a loophole that allowed a person to supply a child with alcohol in public.