THE age limit for buying alcohol from off-sales and supermarkets in Scotland could be raised to 21.

The increase from 18 is part of plans to stamp out teenage binge drinking, alcohol-related violence and health risks.

However, 18-year-olds would continue to be served in pubs, bars and clubs.

Other proposals expected to be unveiled tomorrow by Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill include minimum prices and outlawing cheap deals.

But the plans to make it illegal for anyone under 21 to buy alcohol to take away have already been criticised.

Scottish Retail Consortium director Fiona Moriarty said it was more important to educate young people to drink responsibly.

She added: "This mixed message, that it is OK to drink in pubs and clubs, but not to buy something to drink responsibly in your own home, is extremely confusing."