Replace proposed generational tobacco ban with new legal age of 21

Rejected 9 signatures

What the petition asks

A generational tobacco ban is unworkable and should be replaced by raising the legal age to purchase tobacco products from 18 to 21. As a convenience retailer, I'm deeply concerned that a gen ban would increase instances of violence and abuse against retailers and fuel the tobacco black market.

The task of enforcing a generational ban will fall on independent retailers – and yet so far our voice has been ignored; we urge the government to listen on this matter. Violence and abuse against retailers is already at an all-time high; increased ID checks and restrictions would make this worse and push people towards the black market.

Raising the age to 21 would be simpler to enforce, clearer for shoppers & staff alike, reduce youth smoking and allow adults to make an informed choice.

Why it was rejected

There was already a petition about this issue. Duplicates are rejected so signatures collect in one place.

You may wish to sign this petition which calls for a similar action: Set the age requirement to buy tobacco to 21, do not gradually increase it.

Timeline

16 Jan 2025	Petition opened for signatures
11 Mar 2025	Rejected by the Petitions Committee

Key facts

Signatures 9

Status Rejected

Rejected 11 Mar 2025

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