The standards of retailers dealing with age-restricted goods such as alcohol, tobacco, knives and fireworks will be tested.

The Office of Fair Trading and the police will be examining the procedure that shops and other retailers undertake when selling such items.

Sergeant Alan Shimmin said: ’The safeguarding of children is paramount; one of the aims for the alcohol licencing unit is to protect children from coming to harm as a result of alcohol abuse.

’We are working to achieve this aim by reducing the risk of children unlawfully coming into possession of alcohol, consuming alcohol in public places and reducing the risks to children from irresponsible consumption in private places.’

He continued: ’An opportunity has arisen to work with our partners from the Office of Fair Trading who regulate the sale of other age-restricted goods, such as knives, tobacco and fireworks.

’This exercise will come into force over the coming weeks and months to see if our carefully-selected younger volunteers are challenged about their age when appearing to attempt to purchase age-restricted goods.

’The intention is purely for educational purposes, to contribute to better outcomes for local communities, citizens and businesses.’

The standards of retailers dealing with age-restricted goods will be tested.

The Office of Fair Trading and the Isle of Man Constabulary will be examining the procedure, according to a statement.

Sergeant Alan Shimmin said: ’The safeguarding of children is paramount; one of the aims for the Alcohol Licencing Unit is to protect children from coming to harm as a result of alcohol abuse.

’We are working to achieve this aim by reducing the risk of children unlawfully coming into possession of alcohol, consuming alcohol in public places and reducing the risks to children from irresponsible consumption in private places.’

He continued: ’An opportunity has arisen to work with our partners from the Office of Fair Trading who regulate the sale of other age-restricted goods, such as knives, tobacco and fireworks.

’This exercise will come into force over the coming weeks and months to see if our carefully selected younger volunteers are challenged about their age when appearing to attempt to purchase age-restricted goods.

’The intention is purely for educational purposes, to contribute to better outcomes for local communities, citizens and businesses.’