UK, UK-Northern Ireland: Northern Ireland Minister Backs Plan for Plain Cigarette Packaging

Source from:  The Guardian (uk) 02/03/2015

Northern Ireland's health minister has backed plans to introduce standardised cigarette packaging.

Jim Wells said the region would be included in the UK government's proposals for plain tobacco product packets, which is due to be voted on by MPs in Westminster before the general election.

Wales has already backed the potential law change, with Scottish ministers also signalling their support. If backed by MPs, plain packaging could be introduced by May 2016. Some Conservative MPs have opposed the plans.

Wells, of the Democratic Unionist party, said: "Branding on cigarette packets provides one of the last opportunities for tobacco companies to promote their products."

"Evidence shows that young people are more receptive to this type of advertising than adults."

"I believe that standardised packaging has the potential to contribute to a reduction in child and adult smoking prevalence and look forward to this measure being introduced in Northern Ireland." Enditem