Bill to prevent sale of alcohol to minors approved

The bill aiming to close a loophole in existing laws that regulate the sale of alcohol to minors has passed in its final reading at the Legislative Assembly (AL) on Wednesday evening. The bill mostly corrects an existing loophole that allowed minors to purchase alcohol in supermarkets and convenience stores, while prohibiting the purchase and consumption of these kinds of drinks at bars and restaurants. At the AL to respond to lawmakers’ questions on the matter the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Elsie Ao Ieong noted the goal of reducing exposure, as much as possible, of young people to alcohol while admitting that parents and guardians also have an important role in preventing exposure while minors are at home or in private venues.