The implementation of the law to end the display of tobacco in shops in Scotland has gotten over its first hurdle.
Cigarette vending machines would also be banned and a new registration scheme will be introduced for retailers under the Tobacco and Primary Medical Services Bill.
According to Scottish ministers this is an important step in tackling the smoking-health related problems that Scotland is facing.
The bill has been attacked on several sides, with the Tories voting against it and the Tobacco Retailers Alliance also raising some questions. It is felt that this law will cost shops a lot of money, which is the last thing small businesses need in this time of economic crisis.
However, it is more than likely that this legislation will go through. Public Health Minister Shona Robison says: "Some 15,000 children and young people start to smoke each year in Scotland and the potential impact on their health is frightening."
It is felt that the displays in shops are also a form of advertising and that they draw our attention to cigarettes. Yeah, sure. This will help… bankrupt small shops, only.
[Via: BBC]
