French govt seeks under-18s alcohol ban

France’s health minister said today she is working on a Bill which would prevent under-18s drinking in bars or buying alcohol at supermarkets.

Currently, the country’s drinking age varies depending on the type of alcohol involved and the place of sale. At the moment, anyone aged 16 and over can order drinks including beer and wine in bars.

Health Minister Roselyne Bachelot said today that her Bill would simplify the law by making it illegal for anyone under 18 to buy any kind of alcohol in any setting.

Ms Bachelot said parliament would examine the Bill in the autumn, adding that she hoped it would be in force by 2009.

The Bill is likely to face tough scrutiny from politicians and pressure from the alcohol lobby.