Home Secretary Jacqui Smith is looking to clamp down on irresponsible alcohol consumption, with underage drinking firmly in her sights.
Policies in the pipeline include tougher police powers to confiscate unopened cans and bottles from young people and stiffer penalties for those who sell alcohol to under-18s.
Among the most controversial plans is to fine young people caught with alcohol, with a maximum penalty of £1,000 for three offences in a year under consideration.
Youth workers should consider using these proposals to spark a discussion about alcohol.
Are these measures the best way to combat underage drinking?
Perhaps the government is missing the point and instead of seeking to halt underage drinking, they should accept it takes place and look to encourage responsible drinking.
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