JTI has consistently questioned the UK Government’s proposals to ban the display of tobacco in shops. Unfortunately the Government has decided to press ahead despite the serious concerns raised by JTI, the vast majority of retailers and many Members of Parliament.
In particular, the process which has led to the display ban – and the ban itself – does not comply with Better Regulation principles. The Health Act 2009 and accompanying display regulations for England are unreasonable and disproportionate. Under the circumstances, JTI has been given no option but to start the legal process to challenge the
introduction of this legislation.
Daniel Torras, Managing Director of JTI UK, commented:
“Despite the fact that public policy must be based upon clear evidence and sound research, the UK Government has failed to provide such support to justify the display ban.
“Whilst JTI agrees with the key rationale that children and young people should not smoke and should not be able to buy tobacco products, there is no credible evidence that hiding cigarette packs from view at retail outlets will achieve the objective of further reducing youth smoking. [...]