8 November 2004

Hon Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader

Progressive supports moves to protect minors from alcohol

Progressive MP Matt Robson said today that he'd support a big increase in the number of surprise checks to ensure young people aren't purchasing alcohol.

"It was reported today that on October 28, twenty four premises were visited by Council Liquor Licensing inspectors, Community Public Health officers and the Police to uphold enforcement of the sale of alcohol to minors.

"These types of operations, where a volunteer below the legal age attempts to make a purchase while being observed by an adult supervisor, are a totally legitimate response by society to the damage being caused by under-age drinking and there should be a lot more of them," the Progressive MP said.

"Of the 24 premises approached late last month, two sold alcohol to the volunteers aged 16 to 17, which is two too many," Matt Robson said.

Matt Robson has drafted a Bill that proposes to raise the minimum alcohol purchasing age to 20. The Bill also proposes to strengthen provisions relating to the supply of liquor to minors and to strengthen liquor advertising law.

ENDS

© Scoop Media