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Advice.. Ed Balls
PARENTS are to get a Government guide book on how to teach their kids to drink alcohol.
The move is part of a crackdown announced today on the booze-binge crisis engulfing Britain’s youth.
The book will come alongside new penalties, including jailing parents of drunk louts and giving criminal records to youths who “persistently” drink in public.
The guidelines are planned to discourage parents from giving booze to children as young as five, even though they can legally do so.
Experts will advise on how much it is sensible for youngsters to drink and how parents can supervise.
Ed Balls, Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families said last night: “We need a culture change about drinking, with everyone from parents, the alcohol industry and young people all taking more responsibility.
“We need to fundamentally influence young people’s behaviour and attitudes.”
The drive comes as a leaked report found the Government’s ten-year strategy for tackling youth crime has failed.
Home Secretary Jacqui Smith, who is also behind the crackdown, insisted she was going to get tough.
She said: “Groups of under18s drinking in public are an all too familiar sight.
“This type of drinking increases youth antisocial behaviour and crime, puts young people in vulnerable situations – and I want to put a stop to it.”
Persistent underage boozers will get ASBOs and police will have powers to disperse gangs of drinking youths.
Youngsters could ultimately be prosecuted. Parents may have to attend courses if they fail to get children to change. They could also be fined, sentenced to community service or even face jail.
But last night critics branded the measures too little, too late, and said criminalising kids was not the answer.
Shadow Minister for Children Tim Loughton accused the Government of 11 years of “inaction”. He said: “While Labour has dithered, youth drinking has spiralled out of control.
“We are seeing soaring numbers of children admitted to hospital for alcohol abuse, younger children are binge-drinking and are bingeing on stronger drinks.”
Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg added: “Once again the Government is trying to create a great fanfare.
“We need less spin and more action.”
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my dad has been allowing me to drink reasonable amounts since i was about p6, and yes it does take away the forbidden fruit syndrome. went on a trip to japan last year with my school, my friend was amazed by vending machines selling asahi beer cans, and immediately wanted to get one. i didn't even raise my eyebrows when i saw the beer. probably won't be tempted to drink loads too when i reach legal age (next year) to purchase alcohol
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