One in five use fake ID

One in five under-18s have purchased fake ID over the internet in a bid to buy alcohol, a new survey has claimed.

The study of 1,200 16 to 20 year-olds also revealed that one in two have purchased alcohol underage.

The survey by Clarity Commerce, which suppliers software and technical services to the leisure sector, found 45% admit to asking an older sibling or friend to buy them alcohol.

The poll also highlights the growing problem of kids using genuine ID owned by an older brother, sister or friend.

A huge 78% of the over-18s surveyed admit they have leant their IDs to under-18s to get into a club and 27% to get into a pub.

One if five also leant their ID to under-18s to buy alcohol.

In addition, just 4% said they would sign up to the nationally-recognised proof of age scheme PASS, and 71% had never heard of it.

Michel de Beer, at Clarity Commerce, which is helping retailers in Holland combat the underage selling of alcohol, said: "Whilst the Government's efforts are well meant, the survey results show that ID schemes have had their day as they do not offer enough support and protection to businesses.

"ID cards on their own just do not work — children are getting around them as they know all the tricks of the trade when it comes to fooling businesses and the general adult population."