Overseas identity cards and armed forces documents added to list of acceptable evidence for age-restricted products
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EUROPEAN national identity cards, Biometric UK Residents Permits and MoD Defence Identity Cards will be acceptable as proof of age in Scotland from 1 October.
The move has been welcomed by the Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) as something that should make the sales process run more smoothly.
At the moment problems can arise when EU nationals have travelled to the UK using their national identity card in place of a passport. They then find they need a passport to buy a bottle of wine or packet of cigarettes.
Forces personnel about to leave for service overseas have to hand in their passports – and then can’t buy a can of lager.
“Our members have been pushing for this change and asking us to help make it happen,” said John Lee of the SGF. “We are the only country in the EU that does not have a national identity card. Customers from other EU countries don’t understand why they can’t use theirs as proof of age and it can be difficult for staff to explain the British system.”
Accepting new forms of ID is, he added, “a good idea. It should have a positive impact on sales and help staff to project an image of Scotland as being a welcoming country that is inclusive and outward looking. It will remove hassle and tension at point of sale.”
www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2012/03/5316/3
An example of a Biometric UK Residents Permit can be accessed at: www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2012/03/5316/4
