Derek McDowell (Labour)

I am not sure whether God has much time for the Labour Party or vice versa, but that is not the point.

Nobody could disagree with what the Minister said. He has painted a picture of orgies, drunkenness and violence involving witless 19 year olds being turfed out on to the street and causing damage to themselves and others. Nobody would stand over such behaviour. However, the Minister has provided that if a 19 year old unwittingly serves a drink to an individual who happens to be drunk, then the premises must be closed. That is too harsh. Clearly, as there will not be a meeting of minds on this, I will withdraw the amendment.