SALE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS AND RETAIL CRIME

That this House welcomes the increased legal minimum age of sale for tobacco products from 16 to 18 years of age; notes that according to a recent survey by the British Retail Consortium retail crime has increased by 50 per cent.; further notes that retailers are concerned they may face intimidation or violence as a result of the change and that smaller independent retailers are at greatest risk; acknowledges that fixed penalty notices can be issued to those under the age of 18 years who attempt to buy alcohol; considers that if it were an offence for those under the age of 18 years to attempt to purchase tobacco this would act as a deterrent to children from doing so and relieve pressure on shop owners and reduce potential violence; and calls upon the Government to bring forward proposals to bring into line the legal penalties for the attempted purchase of tobacco with that of alcohol.