Finland introduced the first in a series of laws designed to eradicate smoking and tobacco use, including possible prison sentences for selling cigarettes to minors.

In the first phase, which began last Friday, the possession of tobacco products by people under the age of 18 is completely banned, and it has become a criminal offence to sell tobacco products to minors, punishable by up to six months in prison. Giving away cigarettes for free is also forbidden but is not a punishable offense.
Friday's new legislation also makes it illegal to buy or sell tobacco products over the Internet, to use tobacco in places frequented by minors, or smoke in spectator stands for all outdoor events. Housing associations are allowed to ban smoking near children's play areas and on apartment balconies.
In the next phase in 2012, it will become illegal to display tobacco products in stores, and in 2015 all cigarette vending machines will be banned.
Ismo Tuominen, a key author of the law from the ministry of social affairs and health, said that he does not see a total prohibition on tobacco coming into force in Finland, but that the government will certainly make it very difficult to make, advertise, buy and sell the product.
The tobacco company Philip Morris has filed two complaints with the Chancellor of Justice, the country's top justice official, largely aimed at overturning the impending ban on the display of tobacco products.
Company spokeswoman Anne Edwards told news agency AFP that Philip Morris understands its products are harmful and should be regulated, but added that it is unrealistic to think that the government can stop everyone from smoking.
Tobacco advertising has been banned in Finland for more than 30 years and in 1995 smoking was forbidden in workplaces, public buildings and on public transport, and was extended in 2007 to bars and restaurants. Sales of chewing tobacco and snuff are also banned, but can be imported for personal consumption. (pi)