WIREDGOV

A survey published today about smoking, drinking and drug use by 13 and 15 year olds underlines the need for the tough action the government is taking in these areas.

The figures show a decline in smoking by girls and a decline in the number of young people who had drunk alcohol in the last week. However, it also shows that too many young people continue to smoke, drink and take drugs.

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said:

"We know that too many people continue to smoke and drink too much alcohol and this survey shows that young people are no exception. That's why the government has taken swift action to help tackle these issues.

"The continued decrease in the number of teenagers who are smoking is welcome news, as is the significant rise in the number of young people who have never smoked. However, the fact that teenagers are still smoking shows the need for action.

"We have raised the age for tobacco sales to 18 and introduced proposals to remove cigarettes from open display in shops. I believe these measures will help to further reduce smoking amongst young people.

"In terms of alcohol, I am encouraged by the fact that fewer young people say they are drinking. However we will continue to promote a zero tolerance approach to underage sales and tough action against those who buy alcohol on behalf of under age young people.

"Our bold proposals to tackle alcohol misuse - designed to change the culture around drinking in Scotland - will help by introducing a minimum price and allowing local licensing boards to raise the age for purchase in off sales to 21."

Minister for Community Safety Fergus Ewing said:

"One young person using drugs is one too many. While I am encouraged to see that this has not increased, we want to see the figures go down.

"We are working to educate our young people about the dangers of drugs and the consequences of using them. For example our Know the Score campaign provides extensive information about drugs, supported by a dedicated web site and free-phone helpline.

"As part of this work we ran a media campaign to encourage parents to speak to their children about drugs, with a booklet being sent to parents across the country. Our efforts, through schools and campaigns, to educate young people about the dangers of drugs will continue.

"I hope that this work, combined with our work to give young people more positive options through our CashBack for Communities scheme, can help to reduce the number of young people who are involved in taking drugs, drinking and smoking."

The Scottish Schools Adolescent Lifestyle and Substance Use Survey was published today and provides headline statistics on the prevalence of Smoking, alcohol and drugs misuse among 13 and 15 year olds.