The government announced that the open display of tobacco in shops will be banned in England and Wales.

The British government has unveiled new measures to reduce smoking by children. These include banning the display and advertising of tobacco products at the point of sale, and restricting access to cigarette vending machines for individuals under 18. However, plans for an outright ban on tobacco vending machines and branding on cigarette packets have been scrapped.
The legislation will be brought in next year and the ban enforced by 2011.
Small retailers in Britain say the measures will cost them much needed business at a time of economic slowdown. The Tobacco Manufacturers' Association also opposes the ban and says it could have serious unintended consequences, such as driving the sale of illicit tobacco.
The ban is also under consideration in Scotland. Northern Ireland has yet to decide on a policy. (pi)