The laws relating to alcohol

In the UK, there are laws to regulate the purchase and consumption of alcohol by young people (under 18s) and adults.

• Under 5 years old
• 5 years old and over
• Under 16s
• Under 18s
• Drinking and driving
• At any age
• When not to drink

It is against the law for anyone under 18 to buy alcohol in a pub, supermarket or other licensed outlet in the UK. Adults are not allowed to buy alcohol for under 18s in licensed premises. The only exception is that, under present law, 16 and 17 year olds are allowed to drink beer, wine or cider during a meal in licensed premises with adults (they may not purchase it themselves).

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In England in 2008, 18% of 11–15 year-olds drink weekly (3% of 11 year olds rising to 46% of 15 year olds).