Challenge 25

[ewein2412]

To further enlighten my previous post, rather than have this get lost in the comments, I can tell you here that this is a policy launched by UK RETAILERS (not a government scheme, so not something that can be deemed legal or illegal, I don't think). It is called Challenge 25 and was launched chiefly to combat underage alcohol sales. However, it is up to the retailers to decide (I think) what they'll put their red-and-black stickers on, and one of the ways they decide is by referring to lists drawn up by the local council authority. I think. [Red-and-]black-listed merchandise is also flashed up on the register at check-out with a huge red block that covers a third of the screen (I know this 'cause I saw it).

here is one of the lists of suspect goods from Kent

here is one from Angus

And there's a nice bright image of the classic "Challenge 25" iconography here. Alas, I can't find a picture of the cute little red-and-black stickers they've pasted on all the packets of knitting needles.

Needless to say, if you do a bit of googling and lurking on this subject, you quickly discover that I am not the only one ranting about it.