Winchester smokers stubbing out

9:40am Tuesday 12th August 2008

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WINCHESTER has one of the lowest number of smokers in the South East, according to a report by South East Public Health Observatory.

The city came in way below the south east average for the number of residents lighting up, and also fell below the average for all cities in England, Wales and Scotland.

Winchester also has one of the lowest rates of mortality due to smoking with an estimated 151 deaths per year due to the habit - compared to the England average of 225.

The news comes as The Future of Tobacco Control' consultation looks for the public's input between now and September 8 into further measures that will stop people smoking and prevent young people starting to smoke.

One year on from smoke-free legislation in public places being introduced, the consultation looks at new proposals that would take things further.

Among the suggestions the Department of Health has put forward are: Removing branding and logos from all tobacco packaging.

Having a minimum pack size of 20 - to stop young people who can only afford packs of 10 buying cigarettes.

Restricting access to cigarette vending machines by young people - whether by banning vending machines altogether or through systems that only allow adult purchase.

Restricting the display of tobacco products in shops, which may include putting cigarettes under the counter.

Banning the advertising of smoking paraphernalia, such as cigarette papers.

Sarah Preece, co-ordinator of Smoke Free Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said: "This is a very important consultation to decide future activity in England around the control of tobacco.

"This could have a major impact nationally and locally and as many people as possible are being asked to respond with their views and comments. You can find out more about the consultation and how to respond through our local website at www.smokefreehampshire.co.uk."

To take part in the consultation and have your say, e-mail your thoughts and ideas to: tobaccoconsultation@dh.gsi.gov.uk or by post to: Tobacco Consultation, Department of Health, Room 712, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8UG.

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