3 October 2011
The sale of tobacco from vending machines has been banned in England, with anyone caught selling cigarettes in machines facing a fine of £2,500. The Department of Health said the ban had been introduced to prevent under-age sales to children and to support adults who were trying to quit. The rest of the UK is expected to implement a similar ban next year.
According to research, nearly all adult smokers started smoking before they turned 18. Of the children who regularly smoke, 11 per cent buy their cigarettes from vending machines. It is also estimated that 35 million cigarettes are sold illegally through vending machines to children every year.
Dame Helena Shovelton, Chief Executive for the British Lung Foundation said:
“We are thrilled that through the Government’s commitment to protect children from cigarettes, we are seeing an end to vending machines. This legislation will prevent thousands of under-age people from having easy access to cigarettes.
“However, passive smoke is still suffocating children everyday. For the Government to completely fulfil its commitment, we need legislation to end to smoking in cars when children are passengers.”
-Ends-
For further media enquiries, please contact on 0207 688 5564 or on 0207 688 5565
