Issued: 20 Nov 2008
LICENSED premises in Nairn have been under the spotlight in a test purchasing operation by Police.
Test Purchasing schemes are designed to target the illegal sale of alcohol to young people and the irresponsible and anti-social behaviour that stems from that. By working together the Force and its partner agencies can reduce the availability of alcohol to under-18s.
Inspector David Bushell said: "Two premises in Nairn failed a recent test and licensees were warned of the breach and the possible consequences. A report was made to the Procurator Fiscal. In a further re-test, I am pleased to say that all premises tested passed the test. Public houses, off-sales and supermarket proprietors are reminded that they could face losing their licence if staff are found to be selling alcohol to anyone under 18."
He described how the tests are carried out: "The scheme consists of a fully briefed teenager (under 18 years of age) being sent into a licensed premises under controlled conditions and in line with ACPOS agreed guidelines, to purchase alcohol. If the sales assistant does not ask the person their age and allows them to purchase alcohol they will be committing an offence, even if their excuse is that they thought they were 18. Licence holders will not be duped into committing an offence, because if they, as they should do, ask the age of the test purchaser then the youngsters will answer truthfully."
Area Commander, Chief Inspector Donald Henderson, added: "Test Purchasing is a valuable tool in the fight against alcohol fuelled disorder and anti-social behaviour. It is hoped that this initiative will help to reduce the availability of alcohol to children and also reduce the incidents of anti-social behaviour in this area. Licensees have a responsibility here and we will take robust action against those retailers and assistants who continue to break the law. It is an offence to sell alcohol to anyone under 18 and it is not just the licence holder who is legally liable, but also all the staff working in any licensed premises. The message is Can't Tell, Don't Sell, It’s Your Responsibility."
The Police-led initiative is being supported by The Highland Council, Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Licence Trade Association and Crimestoppers.
Crimestoppers Highland is urging the public to help Police trace those traders who are breaking the law.Jim Ferguson, Crimestoppers Highland chairman, said: "Crimestoppers fully support Northern Constabulary's initiative in robustly tackling the problem of alcohol sales to underage youths. We are keen for members of the public to use the Crimestoppers anonymous number 0800 555 111 to pass information to our call centre with any information they may have of any off-licences violating the conditions of their alcohol licence."
"Underage drinking has serious consequences, sometimes causing long term health problems and more often than not leading to anti social behaviour. Crimestoppers commend Northern Police for taking such a firm stance for the benefit of all concerned."
Nairn Cllr Graham Marsden said: "I fully support the Police Test Purchasing Programme in shops and supermarkets that sell alcohol. This as an integral part of our joint initiative to address the problem of under age drinking in our community. If not challenged, this can often lead to antisocial and late night rowdy behaviour, which does so blight people's lives."
"Parents and other adults who may be asked to supply or purchase alcohol on behalf of those underage are potentially placing young people at risk and anyone who witnesses this should report the matter to the Police."