There were 5,280 NHS hospital admissions among under-16s in 2005-06 compared with 3,870 in 1995-96. Admissions of all those aged 16 or over has more than doubled in the same period, the statistics show.
Frank Soodeen, parliamentary officer at Alcohol Concern, said: "Most young people who enter hospital with an alcohol-related condition are not suffering from a chronic illness. Instead they drink in secret locations, where risks of accidents and assault are higher."
The Liberal Democrats used the figures to call for government action after its research found that nearly a quarter of pubs and off-licences sell alcohol to customers who are underage. Norman Lamb, Lib Dem health spokesman, said: "Problem drinking often starts at a young age, so it is essential we make it harder for underage teenagers to get hold of alcohol."
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