Under-16s Energy Drinks Ban

Lord Kamall Excerpts

Tuesday 10th February 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

I can certainly confirm that to my noble friend. The new Best Start in Life hubs will take the best from previous programmes, including Sure Start. We are providing information through an online service that has had 4.5 million hits so far, and we are working closely with the Department for Education on that. But yes, we will be taking the best of Sure Start.

[Lord Kamall (Con)]

My Lords, when a Government restrict the sale of products to some but not all customers for whatever reason, it is essential to pre-empt the effects on businesses that will be at the sharp end of enforcing this ban, especially corner shops and small retailers. What engagement have the Government had with small retailers, especially small corner shops, some of which do not always feel represented by the Association of Convenience Stores, to understand their concerns over violence or abuse when they ask for ID from customers who may appear to be underage?

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

As we discussed on the Tobacco and Vapes Bill in this Chamber, the whole issue of age verification is crucial. I feel that businesses are used to seeking age verification. What matters is that they feel empowered to ask for it and that staff are trained. That is why we are indeed working with businesses in the way the noble Lord says. Many of them responded to the consultation and we are very pleased to have their voice in that.