New law will help prevent ill health caused by tobacco

Date published: 19/11/2009

A new law that will help to protect children and young people from the harms of tobacco has received Royal Assent.

Provisions in the new Health Act 2009 mean that shops will no longer be allowed to display tobacco products, and enable the prohibition of sales of tobacco from vending machines.

Key measures in the Health Act 2009 will include, amongst other measures, strengthening tobacco control to protect children and young people from the harm caused by smoking

Pat Karney, Director of Smokefree Manchester said;

“The withdrawal of tobacco walls across shops and supermarkets in our area will stop young people and children being attracted to tobacco advertising. In countries like Canada and Australia where these tobacco walls have been withdrawn, there has been a drop in the smoking levels of young people.”

“The withdrawal of cigarette machines will help prevent under age young people taking up smoking.”

The Health Act 2009 will come into effect over the next few months.

If you are a smoker why not give yourself an early Christmas present that will immediately improve your health and wealth – friendly help is one phone call away. Call Bury Stop Smoking Service on 0845 223 9001 or text QUIT together with your name and postcode to 81066.