You can be stopped, fined or arrested by police if you’re under 18 and drinking alcohol in public.
If you’re under 18, it’s against the law:
- for someone to sell you alcohol
- to buy or try to buy alcohol
- for an adult to buy or try to buy alcohol for you
- to drink alcohol in licensed premises (such as a pub or restaurant)
However, if you’re 16 or 17 and accompanied by an adult, you can drink (but not buy) beer, wine or cider with a meal.
If you’re 16 or under, you may be able to go to a pub (or premises primarily used to sell alcohol) if you’re accompanied by an adult. However, this isn’t always the case. It can also depend on the specific conditions for that premises.
It’s illegal to give alcohol to children under 5.
Working in a restaurant or bar under 18
You can serve alcohol in a restaurant if you’re 16 or 17 as long as the licence holder or bar manager has approved the sale.
You may be restricted to selling alcohol in sealed containers (such as cans or bottles) in some areas.
As an expert in legal regulations and policies, particularly those pertaining to alcohol consumption, I bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to shed light on the intricacies of the article in question. My expertise is derived from a thorough understanding of legal frameworks, law enforcement practices, and the nuances of alcohol-related legislation.
Let's delve into the concepts covered in the article:
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Under 18 and Drinking in Public:
- Individuals under 18 can face legal consequences, including being stopped, fined, or arrested, for drinking alcohol in public.
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Selling Alcohol to Minors:
- It is against the law for someone to sell alcohol to individuals under 18.
- Additionally, it is illegal for an adult to buy or attempt to buy alcohol on behalf of someone under 18.
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Drinking in Licensed Premises:
- Underage individuals are prohibited from drinking alcohol in licensed premises such as pubs or restaurants.
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Exception for 16 or 17-Year-Olds Accompanied by an Adult:
- If accompanied by an adult, individuals aged 16 or 17 can drink (but not buy) beer, wine, or cider with a meal.
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Under 16 Going to a Pub with an Adult:
- It may be possible for individuals aged 16 or under to go to a pub or alcohol-selling premises if accompanied by an adult. However, this is subject to specific conditions and not always guaranteed.
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Illegal to Give Alcohol to Children Under 5:
- The law explicitly states that it is illegal to give alcohol to children under the age of 5.
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Working in a Restaurant or Bar Under 18:
- Individuals aged 16 or 17 can serve alcohol in a restaurant if the license holder or bar manager approves the sale.
- There may be restrictions on selling alcohol in certain areas, with a focus on sealed containers such as cans or bottles.
Understanding these concepts is crucial for compliance with the law and ensuring the responsible consumption and handling of alcohol, especially among minors. This knowledge is not only essential for individuals directly involved but also for parents, educators, and anyone interested in the legal aspects of alcohol regulation.
