Welsh guidance says under-15s should not be allowed any alcohol

Dr Tony Jewell says that even drinking small amounts of alcohol can harm children's health.

The latest guidance, called You, Your Child and Alcohol, points to the latest research, which shows that four out of 10 15-year-olds in Wales drink alcohol on a weekly basis. Two out of 10 15-year-olds said they had been drunk for the first time when they were 13 years old or younger.

The guidance stresses that alcohol consumption among under-15s harms brain, bone and hormone development. The dangers of binge drinking, alcohol-related injuries, substance misuse and regretted sexual activity are also highlighted.

The Welsh Assembly Government will launch a campaign next month to coincide with the school summer break to raise awareness of the dangers of young people drinking alcohol.

This will include setting up a public video booth for young people to record their views on alcohol.

Jewell said: "We know that children are under a lot of peer pressure, particularly in their teenage years, and may find it difficult not to go along with their friends who may drink or smoke. But it is essential that we all take responsibility for setting a good example to young people to minimise this."

He added that the cost to the NHS in Wales of treating alcohol-related health problems is estimated at between £70m and £85m a year.