31 May 2008
ASH Scotland Chief Executive Sheila Duffy welcomes World No Tobacco Day 2008 on 31 May.
This year’s theme is protecting young people from tobacco, by banning all types of direct and indirect advertising of this potentially lethal substance.
Ms Duffy said:
“Every day 41 young people take up smoking in Scotland. We know smoking is more prevalent in deprived areas and that poorer young people are less likely to quit, with three quarters still lighting up in their 30’s.
“Smoking is responsible for around 13,500 deaths and 33,500 hospital admissions every year – it’s vital action is taken to stem the number of preventable deaths caused by tobacco.
“That is why ASH Scotland warmly welcomed the Scottish Government’s announcement on 21 May 2008 of a plan to address this ticking timebomb.
“The Smoking Prevention Action Plan puts young people at its heart – with measures to reduce the number of children getting hooked on tobacco by taking a range of bold steps, including putting tobacco out of sight.
“In taking this crucial step, Scotland is leading the way yet again in the UK, and joining countries such as Iceland and Thailand."
On World No Tobacco Day, the Canadian states of Quebec and Ontario will remove tobacco promotional displays from point of sale.
Director of Ontario Campaign for Action on Tobacco, Michael Perley gave his endorsement to Scotland’s positive action:
“We strongly support the Scottish Government’s initiative to prohibit displays of tobacco products from point of sale. Removing messages in retail locations from an industry that manufactures deadly products will be of great benefit to Scotland’s young. It will also make it easier for those who are trying to quit, to do so without constant reminders of the lethal addiction from which they are trying to break free”.
Sheila Duffy added:
“We know children are heavily swayed by brands and marketing and the majority of young people who smoke buy the most visible brands.
“Removing tobacco promotional displays won’t affect the availability of cigarettes for adults, but it will have an impact on the tobacco industry’s ability to target and recruit children.”
ENDS
Sheila Duffy is available for interview.
For further details contact Mandy Carter on 0131 220 9466 / 0131 225 4725
Notes for editors