As part of an ongoing campaign to address the issue, a total of £350,000 has been set aside for the 69 Youth Crime Action Plan areas to help police forces crack down on retailers selling alcohol and confiscate drink from young people.
In addition, every local authority will be issued with a good practice guide to help them work with police, trading standards, children’s services and youth services to prevent underage drinking becoming a problem in their area.
A Kickz football tournament for 2,000 young people has also been launched to provide "a positive alternative" to drinking alcohol. And a new cinema advertisement campaign will highlight the risks associated with drinking.
Schools minister Vernon Coaker said: "A very small minority let their drinking get out of control and this can lead to antisocial behaviour and problems in communities.
"We have given the police all the powers they need to crack down on young people drinking alcohol.
"We are determined to do all we can to prevent alcohol ruining the lives of children, young people and their families."
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