MSP’s petition opposes under-21 alcohol ban

Jul 3 2008 by Lesley Brown, Hamilton Advertiser

HUGH O’Donnell, Liberal Democrat MSP for Central Scotland, is urging young people to sign an online petition opposing an SNP proposal on alcohol sales.

In an attempt to curb binge drinking and alcohol-related violence, the Scottish government want to make it illegal for under-21s to purchase alcohol over the counter in supermarkets and off-licences.

Calling the move ‘misguided’, Mr O’Donnell said: “Raising the drinking age for off-sales to 21 will introduce a presumption that an entire generation of 18- to 20-year-olds in Central Scotland are irresponsible drinkers and will do nothing to improve relations between government and young people.

“If Scotland is to tackle its drink problem, we need the overwhelming majority of young people who drink responsibly on-side, campaigning and setting an example to their generation.”

Alex Neil, SNP MSP for Central Scotland, said: “During the consultation process, opposition parties are entitled to have their say, but it is incumbent on them also to provide alternative solutions to the problem.

“The onus is now on Mr O’Donnell to tell us how he would tackle issues surrounding alcohol such as binge drinking and alcohol-related violence.”

The Lib Dem petition has been posted on their website and will run during the official consultation period for the government’s alcohol strategy.

The results of the petition will be presented to the health secretary.