Derek Mackay has reacted to a new survey by Girl Guiding, which has revealed that one third - 34 per cent - of girls in the UK drink alcohol to give them confidence.  It also highlights that  one in 10 girls – 12 per cent - between the ages of 16 and 21 years old think a good night out means getting so drunk they are unable to remember what happened the following day.

 

The survey which was divided into three age groups, 7 to 11, 11 to 16 and 16 to 21, found there were significant numbers of girls who are worried about their future and were under pressure for a variety of reasons including money, career choices, stigma, government cuts and global warming.

Yet the overwhelming majority of those surveyed – 85 per cent – said they were happy with their lives.

Commenting Mr Mackay said:

“This survey is worrying but not surprising considering the availability of cheap alcohol targeted towards young people. What is important is that those who need support have the ability to get it.


“The Scottish Government is committed to addressing some irresponsible selling practices, which can see alcohol being sold at pocket money prices. 

 
"The introduction of a minimum price is backed by organisations across the health and justice professions, by academics, by the licensed trade and increasing numbers of alcohol producers.


“For too long has Scotland shied away from the on-going problem of alcohol misuse and it is time to hit the nation’s problem head on. 

“From this however, we must recognise that although there are serious concerns most girls and young woman are happy and healthy, with many keen to make a positive difference in their communities, and they should also be given the support to continue to do so.”