Fewer checks on under-age drinking are being carried out by the food safety board because inspectors are busy checking the smoking ban in bars and restaurants, reports Tuesday’s Telegraaf.

In answer to a parliamentary question during a debate on the budget of the food safety board VWA for 2009, health minister Ab Klink confirmed that of the 10,000 checks on under-age drinking planned for this year, only 7,000 will be carried out.
In 2009 the number of checks is due to rise to 20,000, says the Telegraaf.
The VWA needs 25 extra inspectors but is finding it difficult to find staff.