21 May 2008
ASH Scotland welcomes today [21.05.08] the next step towards a smoke free Scotland following publication of the smoking prevention action plan.
ASH Scotland’s Chief Executive Sheila Duffy said:
“We warmly welcome today’s announcement as a framework for debate and a chance for real progress in Scotland's health. At present nearly a quarter of annual deaths in Scotland are attributed to smoking. Taking action now will help to ensure a healthier future for our children.
“To continue to build on the success of Scotland's smoke free legislation we need to take steps to reduce the availability and visibility of tobacco to children.
“The promotional display of tobacco in retail outlets is one of the last remaining loopholes in the ban on tobacco advertising. Tobacco is a product unlike any other that you can buy freely. It is highly addictive and it's lethal. Children are heavily swayed by brands and marketing and the majority of those who smoke buy the most visible brands. Putting cigarettes out of sight will support smokers who are trying to quit, and help reduce the tobacco industry's influence on children.
“The majority of underage smokers say they buy their cigarettes from shops and with only a handful of prosecutions each year, it's clear the current system isn't working. ASH Scotland is calling for a positive licensing scheme for tobacco, similar to alcohol.
“Licensed tobacco sales would deter those retailers who are prepared to sell tobacco to children, and would allow those touting fake and smuggled tobacco to be stopped. Research carried out by YouGov for ASH Scotland earlier this year shows strong public support for tobacco licensing.
“Scotland again has the opportunity to lead within the UK in protecting our children from the harmful impacts of tobacco and creating a healthier, smoke-free future."
ENDS
Sheila Duffy is available for interview via ISDN 0131 220 4527
For further information please contact Mandy Carter 0131 220 9466/07776142299
Notes to editors:
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Below are a number of suggestions that have been made to reduce smoking… |
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How strongly, if at all, would you support or oppose the following measures…? |
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Requiring businesses to have a valid licence to sell tobacco which can be removed if they are caught selling to underage smokers |
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Strongly support |
65 |
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Tend to support |
24 |
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Neither support nor oppose |
7 |
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Tend to oppose |
2 |
|
Strongly oppose |
2 |
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Don’t know |
1 |
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Banning the display of tobacco products in the places where they are sold |
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Strongly support |
41 |
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Tend to support |
19 |
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Neither support nor oppose |
25 |
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Tend to oppose |
8 |
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Strongly oppose |
5 |
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Don’t know |
2 |