22 November 2006
The Smoking Prevention Working Group report Towards a Future Without Tobacco has been published. It sets out how Scotland can do more to help young people to choose not to smoke. The report was commissioned by the Scottish Executive and seeks to build on the tremendous success of smoke-free public places, which was introduced on 26 March 2006. Ministers must now respond to the report's recommendations.
ASH Scotland was a member of the Smoking Prevention Working Group and is delighted that the final report is both far-reaching in its recommendations and that its conclusions were reached unanimously by the working group's members.
What's in the Report?
The report's main recommendations are:
Maureen Moore, Chief Executive of ASH Scotland said,
"ASH Scotland is delighted that this report makes so many strong and sensible recommendations. Youth smoking is a real challenge to Scotland's health, it's vital that action is taken to help young people to say no to an addiction that will eventually kill 1 in 2 long-term smokers. ASH Scotland is now looking for ministers to accept this report and commit to pursuing its recommendations through a strategic plan, which will ensure long term progress in reducing the number of young people that start smoking."
"If the age of purchase for cigarettes moves from 16 to 18, it is vital that it is properly enforced. Currently 25% of 15 year old girls smoke, with 87% of them buying cigarettes from shops, supermarkets or petrol stations. Having the age at 16 obviously doesn't work. ASH Scotland's main concern is making sure that the age limit is properly enforced, regardless if it is set at 16 or 18."
Out of sight out of mind?
"ASH Scotland is particularly pleased to see recommendations for an end to cigarette displays in shops. You can't get away from cigarettes in shops in Scotland and that makes it really difficult for smokers who are trying to quit. The massive displays are just a way for the tobacco industry to advertise their products. It's time that we saw it for what it is and put a stop to it. Ending cigarette displays in shops will not just stop children from starting smoking, it will also support older smokers who are trying to quit."
ENDS
For more comment please call ASH Scotland on 0131 220 4725 or 07773 351878 out of hours. The report's author, Dr Lawrence Gruer, is also available for interview and can be contacted through NHS Health Scotland Communications on 0131 536 5555.
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