06 Dec 2005


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Under 18 tobacco sales ban could become reality

legislation

Tobacco

independent

smuggling

The Government may be a step closer to increasing the age limit for purchasing tobacco from 16 to 18 after Ministers admitted this week they would consider the measure

Ministers are considering backing moves to raise the legal age for buying tobacco from 16 to 18, in a move that would bring tobacco sales in line with the alcohol age limit.

Following widespread criticism over its decision not to implement a total ban on smoking in public places, the Government is reported to be considering giving its approval to plans tabled by Labour backbencher Jeff Ennis.

The MP for Barnsley East and Mexborough is believed to be ready to table an amendment to the Health Bill, which would pave the way for the ban on under-18 sales.

Scotland, meanwhile, could become the first part of Great Britain to impose the age increase, with Ministers believed to be ready to make the change following publication of a report on the issue.

However, the proposals have been criticised by a tobacco retailers' organisation, who claimed the measure risked “encouraging” youngsters to buy tobacco illegally from bootleggers.

Audrey Wales, national spokeswoman for Retailers Against Smuggling, the campaign of the Tobacco Alliance, claimed raising the age limit would provide a “new market” for smugglers who are “already” targeting the UK.

She said: “To introduce such regulation would suit smugglers down to the ground and mean more youngsters committing the crime of buying smuggled goods instead of buying legally from shopkeepers.

“Whatever the age limit, responsible retailers demand proof of age such as a Citizen Card before making a sale. Smugglers just don't care.”

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