alcohol UK law, alcohol law policy.
Alcohol is legal, but strictly regulated
Alcohol is legal. However, the alcohol production, alcohol distribution, alcohol consumption and sale of alcohol are stricly regulated.
- It is illegal to give alcohol to a child under five years of age.
- Against the law for anyone under 18 to buy alcohol in a pub, off-licence, supermarket or other outlet. It is also illegal to supply alcohol to under 18's, or for anyone to buy alcohol in a pub for someone under 18.
- 16 or 17 year olds having a meal in a pub are allowed to buy beer or cider, only in an area set aside for meals.
- Police can confiscate alcohol from anyone they know to be, or reasonably believe to be, under 18 drinking in a public place or a place where they have gained access unlawfully.
- Drinking and driving is a serious offence,
- causing death by careless driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs means a maximum 10 years imprisonment and at least 2 years disqualification from driving.
- Driving or attempting to drive whilst above the legal limit or whilst unfit through drink or drugs means six months imprisonment plus a fine of 5,000 pounds and at least one year's disqualification.