David Burrowes MP

Conservative Party | Enfield Southgate

BURROWES SUPPORTS CALLS FOR CLEARER MESSAGE TO YOUNG SMOKERS

Local Enfield MP, David Burrowes is supporting moves by local retailers to raise the awareness of changes in the law on buying tobacco products.

Since 1st October 2007 it has been illegal to buy tobacco products under the age of 18, however there has been little if any advertising of this fact by the Government. Local retailers are concerned that they will come up against considerable pressure and potential abuse from young people who are not aware of the changes. Small retailers are particularly concerned as they do not have the resources larger stores have to deal with crime on their premises.

Speaking about the issue this week, David Burrowes said:
‘It is important that young people under the age of 18 are made aware that they can no longer buy tobacco products, including cigarettes. Unlike the smoking ban which saw a huge advertising campaign, I am concerned that awareness levels have not been adequately raised about purchasing tobacco. It is therefore important that we do all we can to ensure that our young people know about the changes in the law’

Local retailer, Mahendra Jadeja has raised his concerns that the lack of a good public awareness campaign will affect people like himself who seek to be responsible, law abiding shop keepers.

Mr Jadeja said:
‘Although I support the new legislation which has changed the age for buying tobacco from 16-18, I am concerned that many young people do not know that the change has taken place. I am worried that there will be greater friction between shops and young people under the age of 16 who are trying to purchase tobacco products and I hope we can make as many young people as possible aware of the new law.’

David Burrowes also said:
‘I am concerned that the Government’s lack of clear advertising and failure to make people aware of the change will result in increased crime against local shop keepers. I am pleased to support local responsible retailers like Mr Jadeja who are contacting the police to ensure their officers are fully aware of the age change in a move to reduce the potential for abuse, violence and anti-social behaviour as a result of the law change.’