Lib Dems: revoke shop alcohol licences for one underage sale

The Liberal Democrats say alcohol licences in shops should be revoked for one underage sale.

The Lib Dems also back minimum pricing in its new Tackling Booze Britain plan - which will "inevitably" be implemented, the party said.

The plan says a "one strike and you're out" policy on underage sales would put an end to the sale of alcohol to children, while minimum pricing will "stop irresponsible drinks promotions".

The Lib Dems also propose fines for disruptive drunks in A&E departments.

The plan has been released today to coincide with the new report from the Home Affairs Committee, which also recommends minimum pricing and a ban on drinks promotions.

Liberal Democrat Leader, Nick Clegg said: "The Government's failure to tackle the alcohol misuse in this country has left many of our town centres as no-go areas on Friday and Saturday nights.

"We cannot afford to ignore the impact that this problem is having on many people's lives.

"These proposals will increase funding for treatment of people with a drink problem, force retailers to sell alcohol responsibly, and ensure that those people who cannot handle alcohol responsibly are held to account.

"Following the publication of today's Home Affairs Select Committee report, these changes now become inevitable.

"We need a radical new approach to the alcohol related problems in this country. Parents, young people, and the alcohol industry must all play their part if we're to have any hope of dealing with the country's binge drinking culture.

"Ministers have spent years ignoring this growing problem. It's time action was taken to tackle this now."