RAISING OF THE AGE OF SALE OF TOBACCO TO 18 YEARS

That this House welcomes the Department of Health Consultation on Under-Age Sale of Tobacco; congratulates and supports the Government on its proposal to raise the age of sale of tobacco to 18 years, in line with World Health Organisation recommendations, to prevent children in England and Wales purchasing tobacco; notes that most addicted adult smokers start smoking as teenagers and that around 600 million cigarettes a year are smoked by children under 16 years and that for 57 per cent. of children who smoke, the usual source is shops; further notes that most local authorities do not prosecute for under-age sales; and supports tougher sanctions against retailers who persistently sell cigarettes to children.