The law for selling tobacco has changed
Since 1st October 2007, it has been illegal to sell tobacco to anyone under the age of 18, bringing it in line with sales of alcohol.
This reinforces the dangers of smoking to young people and is aimed to reduce the numbers of teenagers taking up smoking. It also helps eliminate confusion among retailers.
Trading Standards has responsibility for enforcing laws controlling such age-restricted products and also for other tight legal controls on how tobacco may be marketed, including the point of sale.
For more information about the change in the law, call
020 7492 0980 or visit www.tobaccoagechange.co.uk for free guidance, downloads and resources. There is also a dedicated website for young people affected by the change at www.tobacco18.co.uk
Retailers can contact Bristol City Council Trading Standards on 0117 922 3604 to request a copy of 'No proof of age - no sale' a free resource pack for retailers in the South West to help them comply with the law.