Since April 6, 2012, all large shops and supermarkets in England have to cover up cigarettes and hide tobacco products from public view. This has been done in order to protect children from being the target of tobacco promotion and to help people quit smoking.
Health Secretary, Andrew Lansley, explained that the ban was part of a process whereby young people don’t think about smoking, don’t see cigarettes and don’t see smoking related products.
Lansley’s ideal is miles from reality but nevertheless a worthy goal.
Reassuringly, the ban is opposed by the tobacco industry. Moves by Scotland to introduce such a ban have been delayed by legal action taken by Imperial Tobacco. The tobacco companies are worried about falling sales and profits. Any move opposed by these organisations should signal a green light for anti-smoking legislation.
I support any reasonable move designed to persuade people not to smoke. The point of sale cover up legislation fits this category.
