In Plain English
AI-generatedThis Bill would set up a national Proof of Age Scheme to help ensure people buying restricted goods can prove they are old enough. It would require retailers to check age at the point of sale, define what counts as valid proof, and set out penalties for selling to someone underage. The aim is to reduce underage purchases of items such as alcohol and other age-restricted goods.
Key Points
- Establishes a national Proof of Age Scheme and rules for how proof of age should be shown and verified at the point of sale.
- Requires retailers to check the age of customers buying restricted goods and to comply with the scheme, with penalties for breaches.
- Creates or designates an administering body to run the scheme, issue approved proofs of age (documents or digital credentials), and oversee enforcement.
Who is affected?
Retailers and their staff who sell restricted goodsConsumers, especially young people near the age threshold for restricted goodsIdentity document providers and digital proof of age servicesRegulators and enforcement agencies (e.g., Trading Standards, police)Industry bodies and associations representing retailers and consumers
Generated 21 February 2026
