SHOPKEEPERS across Scotland who are suspected of selling booze to under-age drinkers will be the subject of sting' operations.

New laws came into force today which give the police power to use schoolchildren below the age of 18 in an attempt to catch rogue traders.

John Farrell, head of licensing at Strathclyde Police, warned: "This is an operational tool we will certainly be using in our fight to ensure the well being of communities."

The Scottish Grocers Federation is worried about the test purchasing scheme and is calling for a national proof-of-age scheme.