[C]umbria Trading Standards are reminding retailers to remove non-compliant tobacco products from display before new rules come into force on 20 May regarding plain packaging and minimum size packs.
To help reduce the number of smokers in the UK, legislation has been introduced which includes the following measures:
- A minimum of 20 cigarettes per packet
- Hand rolling tobacco (HRT) in pouches of 30 grams or more
- New and larger health warnings that cover 65% of the packaging
- All cigarette & HRT packets to be a standardised colour (dull green)
- Flavoured cigarettes & HRT will also be banned (menthol cigarettes in 2020)
- Brand names will be written in standard font, size and location on the pack
It is hoped that by increasing the cost of tobacco and by making the products less appealing people will be less likely to start smoking and will help current smokers quit. Several studies have shown that standard packs change attitudes and beliefs around smoking by reducing its appeal, and making health warnings more prominent.
Colin Cox, Cumbria County Council’s Director of Public Health, said: “This is a proud moment for public health in the fight to reduce smoking prevalence. Many of us have worked on this for a number of years.
“The percentage of young people smoking in Cumbria has steadily decreased since 2003, which is a trend that we are delighted about. These new laws can only help contribute to this decline and ultimately cut the risks associated with smoking, saving more lives.”
IF YOU WANT TO STOP SMOKING
Why not visit your local Stop Smoking Service and have a conversation with an understanding expert? Find your nearest service or call the county council’s public health Stop Smoking Helpline on 03000 13 3000.
Millions have used NHS Smokefree support to help them stop smoking. Choose from an app, Quit Kit, email, SMS and face-to-face guidance – Sign up.
If you would like business advice to ensure you are compliant please contact Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06 or visit www.adviceguide.org.uk