Off-trade linked to 'proxy' U-18 sales

by John Harrington

The dramatic scale of the problem of adults buying alcohol for minors in the off-trade has been revealed.

Almost nine out of 10 people who have bought alcohol for someone under 18 did so in a convenience store, off-licence or supermarket, claims a new survey by the Portman Group. About one-in-seven people have made a 'proxy purchase' in a pub or bar.

In total, one-third of people admitted buying alcohol for children if they were asked.

The shocking figures were released as Portman launched a new campaign against proxy purchases. A hundred thousand posters and window stickers are being sent to pubs and off-licence premises warning that anyone caught buying alcohol for a minor could get an £80 on-the-spot fine.

David Rae, chief executive of the Association of Convenience Stores, admitted that proxy purchasing is an issue that 'has been neglected too often in the past'.

Portman's campaign is mainly focused on the off-trade. But Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers chief executive Nick Bish said bar staff also have to be vigilant.

'People are not allowed to buy for a minor but it's very difficult to enforce in a crowded bar,' said Bish. 'It's an issue of diligence.'

Portman's research, based on answers given by 1,000 18 to 65- year-olds, also found that one third of adults had been asked to buy alcohol on behalf of someone under 18.

One-third of those who admitted proxy buying said they had done so because they felt intimidated.

The same proportion thought it would do no harm. One-in-four people did not think proxy buying was an offence.