Sign up to stop kids smoking
SMOKEFREE Lincs Alliance is asking people to help in the fight against underage smoking by writing to their MP.
The Smokefree Lincs Alliance is asking people to sign and send a specially-designed postcard to their MP, urging them to support changes to the law aimed at reducing smoking among young people.
The organisation hopes that by raising awareness of this issue among MPs, they can help ensure a proper debate when the upcoming Health Bill goes to the House of Commons at the end of July.
Ros Watson, Smokefree Lincs Alliance co-ordinator, said: "The Bill will introduce important changes to the way in which cigarettes are made available and it's vital that we all show our support.
"The main aim of the Bill is to deter young people from taking up smoking. Research has shown that if people avoid cigarettes before they are 18 years old, they are much less likely to become addicted.
"This will help make non-smoking the norm, which will also help lessen the effects of second-hand smoke.
"The bill is pushing for three main changes. Firstly, it calls for the end of cigarette vending machines. It is too easy for children to be able to buy tobacco without challenge from a machine, and cigarettes are the only age-restricted product sold in this way.
"It will also outlaw both point-of-sale advertising and branding on cigarette packaging.
"These forms of advertising are vital ways for the tobacco companies to tempt young people, and their removal will be a significant step in tackling smoking addiction."
The postcard is available from your local district and county council receptions or by contacting Julie Scott on 01522 550544. Alternatively, people can write a personal letter to their MP if they feel strongly on the issue.
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Friday 25 May 2012
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