Imperial 'Disappointed' Over Display And Vending Votes

Source from:  Tobacco Reporter 10/14/2009

Imperial Tobacco has hit out at the House of Commons' support last night for bans on retail tobacco displays and cigarette vending machines in England. The company said it was disappointed that the government had once again ignored the abundant evidence that legislation banning tobacco displays would have no impact on young people smoking, but would place an unnecessary burden on retailers. "Rather than listening to reasonable calls from the opposition benches for a full debate and free vote on the issue, they have driven this legislation through the House with minimum consideration," it stated in a press note. "It is also surprising and hugely disappointing that parliament has opted for a total ban of cigarette vending machines." "Imperial Tobacco has consistently expressed its concerns about the effect this legislation will have on small retailers and the illicit trade in tobacco products," said Amal Pramanik, general manager of Imperial Tobacco UK. "Retailers are justifiably concerned about the lack of evidence and the public have a right to know why the government has been wedded to such an ineffectual proposal when the collateral damage from it is likely to be so great." Pramanik said that Imperial had always supported the government's proposal to reduce the illegal access by minors to cigarette vending machines. "Responsible vending companies have actively developed restricted access mechanisms on cigarette vending machines and have been successfully trialling these devices in partnership with publicans. "This decision represents a betrayal of those in the vending sector who have worked hard to develop an acceptable solution. Banning vending is a disproportionate response to a diminishing problem and now threatens the livelihoods of all whose jobs depend on the vending sector… "I sincerely hope the House of Lords will see sense and reverse this decision." Enditem