All types of retailers were targeted, including independent newsagents, large national supermarkets, off licences and petrol stations.
Geoffrey Theobald, chairman of local authorities umbrella body LACORS, said “This worrying increase shows that retailers aren’t doing enough to make sure they aren’t selling cigarettes to kids.”
After vending machines, independent newsagents were the worst culprits, with nearly a quarter of those tested selling tobacco products to under-18s.
Off-licences fared best, with illegal sales made on 14% of occasions.
Tobacco test purchasing failure rates
Total 2006 – 13%
Total 2007 – 19%
Large national retailer – 19%
Small retailer – 15%
National newsagent – 19%
Independent newsagent – 23%
Off licence – 14%
Petrol station kiosk – 15%
Vending machines – 41%
Other – 23%
Source: LACORS
It is illegal to sell cigarettes, tobacco products or cigarette papers to anyone under 18. The maximum fine is £2,500.
