Tobacco displays to be hidden in shops

Supermarkets in England will no longer be allowed to display tobacco products to the public

Cigarettes and other tobacco products will no longer be displayed to the public in large shops and supermarkets in England, according to new legislation that came into effect last Friday.

The changes aim to protect children from tobacco promotion as well as helping to reduce temptation for adults trying to kick the habit.

Such displays have made smoking more appealing to young people with nearly two thirds of current and ex-smokers say they started smoking before they were 18.

'We cannot ignore the fact that young people are recruited into smoking by colourful, eye-catching, cigarette displays,' says Health Minister Ann Milton. 'Most adult smokers started smoking as teenagers and we need to stop this trend.'

According to shocking statistics, more than 300,000 children under the age of 16 try smoking each year and five per cent of children aged 11-15 are regular smokers.

'It’s essential that we create a culture that promotes and protects public health and tobacco legislation is a significant factor in making this happen,' says Jo Butcher from National Children’s Bureau.

Apart from serving and restocking, tobacco must be covered up from the public. Those found not complying with the law could be fined up to £5,000 or even face imprisonment.

'We want to arrive at a place where we no longer see smoking as a normal part of life,' says Health Secretary Andrew Lansley. CLICK HERE FOR MORE WORLD NEWS