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Parents should not give alcohol to under-15s

Published:  29 January, 2009

The drinks industry is under further pressure today following the advice of the Government's chief medical officer that parents should never give alcohol to children under the age of 15.

The drinks industry is under further pressure today following the advice of the Government's chief medical officer that parents should never give alcohol to children under the age of 15.

Sir Liam Donaldson said childhood should be an "alcohol-free time" ahead of further advice expected from ministers on the issue.
The guidance, to be released shortly, is not expected to become law, is also expected to warn against giving children over 15 alcohol more than one time a week.

Sir Liam told the BBC: "It is advice to parents. It' s their choice at the end of the day within the family setting. There is serious harm that can come to children if they drink and the main advice is that childhood should be an alcohol-free time."

The move is a further attack on the drinks industry and the effects of alcohol on health.

But industry figures insist measures are in place to curb underage drinking. Diageo said in a statement: This is a mature response by the Government in trying to tackle a serious problem. Young people's drinking behaviour cannot be taken in isolation and we are also pleased to see government's recognition of the role of parents and carers in promoting a responsible attitude towards alcohol."

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