Business information

Don't let profits go up in smoke over new age limit

Hertfordshire Trading Standards is issuing advice to retailers ahead of the smoking age being raised from 16 to 18 next month.

The law changes on October 1 and traders face a fine of up to £2,500 if caught selling cigarettes or other tobacco products to anyone under the legal limit.

To help avoid this, trading standards recommend shops only accept three types of identification - a passport, a photo driving licence, or a proof of age card with a PASS hologram. The 'Think 21' policy used for alcohol sales is also suggested as a precaution.

The change of law is designed to cut the number of young people taking up smoking in the first place. Research shows most smokers take up the habit in their teens.

Keith Emsall, executive member for community safety and culture, said: "We wholeheartedly support this change in the law if it helps prevent young adults from becoming addicted to tobacco and facing the consequences for their health later in life.

"Our advice to retailers is to adopt a cautious approach to sales. If they are in any doubt, ask for ID. As with underage alcohol sales, the cost of getting caught is not worth the risk.

"There is plenty of information available for retailers to help them comply with the new laws and our officers are also ready to give any further advice that is needed."

The Department of Health is sending out a 'toolkit of information about the changes to all retailers who sell cigarettes (approximately 135,000) and this includes a copy of the required signage.

Any business that has not received this information can download it from www.tobaccoagechange.co.uk or contact Trading Standards on 01727 813849

The Smoke Free Hertfordshire group, which Hertfordshire County Council is part of, is also supporting the change by producing 10 banners, 3,000 pens pencils, and rulers, and 5,000 postcards to hand out at schools and colleges across the county.

Young people who would like to know more about the changes and how it will affect them should visit www.tobacco18.co.uk

Anyone wishing to kick the habit can contact the Hertfordshire Stop Smoking Service on 0800 389 3998.