What should occur if a license controller suspects someone is underage?

When a license controller suspects that a patron may be underage, the appropriate response is to immediately refuse service and check for identification. This procedure is essential for responsibly managing licensed premises and adhering to legal obligations regarding the sale of alcohol.

Refusing service when there is suspicion of underage status protects the establishment from legal repercussions and promotes a safe environment for all patrons. Checking for valid ID allows the license controller to verify the age of the individual against the legal requirements. If the person cannot provide satisfactory identification proving they are of legal drinking age, the license controller is fulfilling their duty to prevent underage drinking.

In contrast, ignoring the situation even if the individual presents a valid ID can lead to irresponsible practices, as there might be signs of forged identification or previous suspicious behavior. Asking someone to leave without giving an explanation could create confusion or escalate the situation unnecessarily. Serving someone solely based on their appearance without verifying their age does not align with responsible service practices and poses risks for both the establishment and the patrons. Thus, the best course of action is to refuse service and ensure that all patrons are of legal age through proper identification.