Alcohol and the Law – The law and underage drinking
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It is important to be aware of guidelines, facts and the law about alcohol in the UK.
Under 5?
It is illegal to give alcohol to under 5s.
Under 16?
It is at the landlord’s discretion as to whether children are allowed anywhere in a pub. They cannot, of course, buy or drink alcohol on the premises.
Under 18?
If you are under 18, it is illegal to buy alcohol (this includes in any shop or supermarket, off licenses, bars, clubs or restaurants and buying on line). It is illegal to buy alcohol for someone under 18 in a licensed premises, the only exception is for 16 or 17 year-olds who are allowed to drink beer, wine or cider with food if with an adult (but they may not buy the alcohol themselves).
It is legal for anyone over 5 to drink alcohol. The restrictions apply to purchasing (under 18) and location – in licensed premises, in public or in alcohol exclusion zones. Police have powers to confiscate alcohol from under 18’s drinking in public spaces (e.g. in the street or in parks).
The...
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