What action it is taking to reduce the incidence of (a) underage drinking, (b) drinking by young adults and (c) drinking by children and wh…

Reducing harmful drinking by children and young people is one of the key priorities of the Plan for Action on Alcohol Problems published in 2002. The plan sets out a range of actions in relation to school and community based education and the promotion of positive alternatives. It also includes actions to ensure children affected by alcohol problems have access to appropriate services, and new resources for parents to help them to discuss alcohol issues with their children.
The Executive will shortly be publishing an update to this Plan, setting out further actions.
Executive action in relation to young adults has focused on encouraging them to take responsibility for their behaviour when drunk and to think more about the negative effects of this behaviour. Action includes a television advertising campaign and a high profile press and poster campaign, and supporting NHS Health Scotland and Alcohol Focus Scotland in providing information and advice.
A breakdown of funding to tackle drinking by children and young adults is not available. Scottish Executive spend specifically on alcohol will amount to £11.9 million in 2005-06. Alcohol misuse is also targeted through other joint drugs/alcohol activities.