DISPLAY OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS

That this House acknowledges the hard work of small and independent retailers; congratulates them on the vital role they play in many diverse communities across the country; recognises the ongoing economic and commercial pressures threatening their viability and survival; is concerned that the regulatory burden placed upon them should be maintained at an appropriate level; expresses its concern that proposed measures to ban the display of tobacco products in small shops are not balanced, proportionate or firmly evidence-based; calls upon the Government to further consider the effects of the measures on the viability of small shops and the market in illicit tobacco; welcomes Government action to address illegal sales of tobacco; and urges the Government to pursue the most effective and proven measures by which under-18 year olds can be deterred from smoking.