I have to disagree. There is a huge difference. You're still a kid at 16.

Belgian kids seem to do just fine.

1. UK

2. The police want it to be raised to 21, but thankfully Gordon Brown doesn't. Personally, we have a problem with teenage alcoholism. The reason that the problem exists is that it is a taboo (and subsequently fashionable) thing to do. I think if it was lowered t0 16, or perhaps even 14, the problem would be reduced as they would begin to drink a more controlled environment. Raising it to 21 will just allow for a wider spectrum of ages to drink because it isn't allowed.

That's my 2c

I really dont see a reason for it to be under 21..... im 23 now and i had no problem waiting to get into clubs until then.

I agree. I think it's that kids want to grow up too soon nowadays. At least it seems like that here. [us]

I don't understand where people are saying that lower the age will get people drinking in safer environments. Have you ever been to a college party? The people at most I have been to have all been over 21 and I can attest that the environment is not safe at all. If anyone could explain the whole "safer" environment thing that would be greatly appreciated.

its safer because it wont be seen as such a taboo, its like drugs, the more laws against taking them, the more people do it, its also safer because if people get used to drinking smaller amounts from a younger age, there less likely to binge drink when they get older.

Ok but then where does it stop then? Say for instance that they lower the drinking age to 16. Then say that I'm 16 and can drink legally and have younger siblings and they want to do it also. Then they will binge drink and it will be a taboo for them. And the same thing that is a problem now will still be a problem. Then who is to say that if the drinking age is actually lowered that people will even be safe about it and that they will drink small amounts? I still do not see this doing any good. Have you ever seen 16 year olds when they get their license for the first time? Most of them are reckless beyond belief (at least in my area) and then to say that they could drink also? That would be horrific.

if you lower the drinking age to 16 kids will want to drink at a lower age than that... nothing will change

its to do with what your body can cope with in part, id also make it legal for home use from say 8 or 9, if parents want to get there kids use to it and stuff.