5 June 2007
Commenting on today’s announcement from Public Health Minister Shona Robison MSP, that the minimum legal age for tobacco sales is to be increased from 16 to 18, Maureen Moore OBE, Chief Executive of ASH Scotland said:
"This announcement is to be welcomed. It sends a clear message about the health hazards of tobacco use and also brings Scotland into line with the rest of Britain. However it is only useful as part of a package of adequately resourced enforcement, cessation, and education measures.To arrange an interview with ASH Scotland’s Director of Information and Communications, Sheila Duffy, please contact Jeanette Campbell.“There is solid evidence that age restriction laws can lead to a significant decline in the numbers of retailers selling cigarettes to those underage but only if the law is properly implemented[1]. Effective enforcement of the law, backed by tobacco licensing, is vital and retailers who sell cigarettes to anyone under age must be properly penalised.
“As part of a clear and comprehensive enforcement strategy, the Minister should now bring forward legislation for a tobacco licensing scheme. Licence suspension and revocation for repeated violation can be used as enforcement tools alongside a system of fines. Licensing would also help the targeting and funding of enforcement efforts. Currently minimum age restrictions are not being upheld. The SALSUS report into the substance use of underage teenagers in Scotland published last week showed 82% of fifteen year olds and 47% of thirteen year old smokers reported buying their cigarettes from shops [2].
“In addition, cessation services targeted at 16 to 18 year olds who currently smoke must be quickly rolled out across Scotland. The change in the minimum purchase age means anyone between 16 and 18 who currently legally buys cigarettes will not be able to do so in October and, with others seeking to stop, they should be given all possible support in helping to quit smoking.
“Finally, education is important for both retailers and the public. A media campaign is necessary to make those who sell and those who purchase tobacco aware of the new age restrictions and the health problems caused with starting smoking at a young age. Schools, youth groups, and community education, should also be targeted so we can reach teenagers and prevent them becoming addicted to tobacco in the first place.
“Scotland has the highest rate of young smokers in Britain so we must do all we can to help reduce the numbers of young people in Scotland taking up smoking. The Minister has stated there will be a wider package of measures to back the age change including stricter enforcement and ASH Scotland urges her to take every opportunity to ensure these will be effective. If the Minister takes the necessary steps we have outlined now, the age change can reduce smoking rates and she will be helping to protect the health of our future generations and prevent them from becoming addicted to tobacco.”
ENDS
Contact: Jeanette Campbell, Communications Officer Tel: 0131 220 9466
Notes to editors:
ASH Scotland is the leading voluntary organisation campaigning for effective tobacco control legislation.
1.Stead, L. and Lancaster, T. A systematic review of interventions for preventing tobacco sales to minors Tobacco Control, 9(2): pp.169-176, 2000.
2. BMRB Social Research. Scottish Schools Adolescent Lifestyle and Substance Use Survey (SALSUS) - National Report 2006 [online]. 2007. Available from: www.drugmisuse.isdscotland.org/publications/abstracts/salsus_national06.htm [accessed 01 June 2007]
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