April 2008
West Dunbartonshire Council Trading Standards team expressed satisfaction after a recent operation involving children’s attempts to purchase restricted goods was reasonably successful.
Councillor Craig McLaughlin, Spokesperson for the Corporate Services department said “Our Trading Standards Officers visited 15 local premises with a child in an attempt to see if the shops would sell spray paint devices and cigarettes to the child. I am pleased to say no cigarettes were sold, however it transpires that a spray paint was sold to a 14 year old in a Dumbarton shop which is disappointing as such behaviour by shop staff can encourage the proliferation of graffiti and associated antisocial behaviour. I would express my gratitude to the majority of responsible retailers who refused to sell age restricted goods to children and ask that they show continued vigilance in relation to this issue.” Trading Standards will be taking follow-up action to ensure that the shop which sold spray paint complies with the law in future.
Trading Standards Officer Nicky Johnston said “The operation produced better results than on previous occasions so hopefully the message is getting through that we will not tolerate the supply of age restricted goods to children and young persons in West Dunbartonshire. However we are not resting on our laurels, so similar unannounced operations involving our officers and child volunteers will continue on a regular basis and cover items such as adult DVDs, fireworks, solvents and of course tobacco. If any members of the public have concerns about shops selling such goods to children, I would be very happy to speak to them and they can call me on 01389 738552 or alternatively email us at trading-standards@west-dunbarton.gov.uk”.
