That old gem (or should it be Gin?) of the problem of the drunken youth of Britain has reared its head again ...the Beeb reports
Personally I agreed with some of the comments made in that's it a matter of attitude. You drink to socialise and not to abuse it. I was brought up in a continental drinking style (diluted wine from a relatively early age) so its never really been an issue. I've never felt the need to go out to just to get drunk, although in some of my student days I did end up drinking a bit too much ... but never forgot what I did! Raising the age to 21 wouldn't work, think about what prohibition did to the US? Does the continent have these issues with an 18 age limit? I think maybe the authorities should tighten up on the licencees who sell to under age drinkers and also educate (in whatever way; parents/ schools etc.) these under age drinkers so that hopefully attitudes gradually change.