HARD CORE OF ALCOHOL-DRINKING CHILDREN ENDING UP IN HOSPITAL - LAMB

12.01.00am GMT Fri 30th Nov 2007

There were more than 1,400 incidents of children aged under 14 being treated for alcohol-related conditions by NHS hospitals in England last year, according to figures uncovered by the Norman Lamb.

The figures, obtained by the Liberal Democrat Shadow Health Secretary in response to a Parliamentary Question, show the number of treatments in each Strategic Health Authority.

Commenting, Norman Lamb MP said:

"There is a hard core of young drinkers who are drinking a staggeringly large amount of alcohol. Those drinking so much they require hospital treatment will represent only the tip of the iceberg."

"Children who do drink alcohol seem to be consuming more than ever, and suffering the health consequences both now and in later life."

"The Government must act to save thousands of young people from a future of alcoholism and serious liver disease."

The Parliamentary Question asked by Liberal Democrat Shadow Health Secretary, Norman Lamb MP can be viewed here: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200708/cmhansrd/cm071128/text/71128w0025.htm#07112873001233