Fresh crackdown on binge-drinking teens

Published: 17 June, 2009

UK towns and cities blighted by summer teenage binge drinking are to share in a £1.4m government cash pot to clamp down on the problem.

Children's Minister, Ed Balls, has announced a new campaign funded by the government and spearheaded by local councils across the UK.

The chief executive of the Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) has welcomed the move.

Jeremy Beadles said: "There is mounting evidence to show that tough enforcement and education, supported by cooperation involving police, local authorities and businesses, can combat this problem."

The £1.4m will be divided among 69 areas identified as problem areas for alcohol-fuelled anti-social behaviour and crime.

The cash-injection is designed to help local authorities to confiscate alcohol and disperse groups of young people getting drunk.

Announcing the new initiative, Ed Balls MP said: "We know that during the summer holidays. More young people want to spend time outside with their friends.

"The majority of young people are law-abiding and make a positive contribution to their communities. However, when alcohol is a factor we know that some young people's behaviour can get out of control and this can lead to anti-social behaviour. Communities should not have to put up with this.

"That's why we are determined to keep up the pressure on local areas so that they crackdown on teenage drinking at all times, but especially during the summer months."

The minister added that a combination of tough action and support would see progress on the issue.

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