Schoolchildren must be taught about the dangers of drinking in the same way as they are taught about the perils of drugs.

That's the view of Preseli Pembrokeshire AM Paul Davies who took part in a Welsh Assembly Government debate highlighting the problem in Wales of underage drinkers.

Almost 400 Welsh children aged under 16 are admitted to hospital every year after drinking too much.

"Attitude and education must be fundamental in attempting to reduce the number of people who abuse alcohol," said Mr Davies.

"It is easy to point the finger of blame when it comes to the increase in alcohol-related problems, but it is the responsibility of everyone across Wales to reconsider his or her behaviour and attitude towards alcohol."

He said that parents, as well as schools and the Government, all had a role to play in changing attitudes.

"Parents have a responsibility to warn their children about the dangers of alcohol and education is also a vital too l," he added.

"It is imperative that we place as much emphasis on promoting responsible attitudes to alcohol in schools as we do on teaching

young people about drugs."