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27 Jan 00

CLAMPING DOWN ON CIGARETTE SALES TO UNDER 16s

A 14 year old boy has helped the Borough of Poole's Consumer Protection Service to check that under 16s are not being sold cigarettes by local shops or from vending machines.

In this first of many surveys, a total of eight stores were visited by the boy. None of the shopkeepers sold him cigarettes but he was able to buy cigarettes from vending machines in three pubs and one restaurant. These machines have now been removed or re-sited so that they can be properly supervised by their owners.

The Council's Public Protection Committee has supported further surveys to ensure that under aged people cannot buy cigarettes. If they are sold them, the owners of the shops or vending machine premises could be prosecuted.

Councillor Curtis, Chairman of Public Protection Committee, said: "We are pleased that shopkeepers are being responsible. If they have any doubt as to the age of young people attempting to buy cigarettes they should ask to see a proof of age identity card".

He continued: "Smoking kills over 120,000 people a year in the UK and we are determined to play our part in preventing young people starting to smoke. Where we find anyone selling cigarettes to under 16s, the shopkeeper or owner of the premises where a vending machine is sited is likely to find themselves in court".

Poole Council is looking for volunteers, ideally aged 12-13 years to help in future surveys which will be carried out under strict Home Office guidelines. It is important that candidates look their age (not older). If any young people and their parents/guardians would like to help, please telephone the Borough of Poole's Consumer Protection team on 01202 261700.


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For more information contact Jeff Morley, Consumer Protection Services, Team Manager.
Tel: 01202 261710