A proposed law on tougher tobacco laws could mean cigarettes will have to be hidden from sight in dairies and supermarkets.

Current restrictions allow a maximum of 100 cigarettes and 40 cartons to be on display but the Health Ministry is now proposing a total display ban. The Cancer Society supports the ban but some local retailers are not happy.
Local retailers have signed a petition that was organised by a coalition of more than 50 retailers nationwide. The group argues the restrictions are an attack on the rights of retailers and will have the greatest impact on small, family-owned businesses.
Belinda Hughes, tobacco control spokesperson for the Cancer Society says the Government consultation paper comes on the back of recent evidence that tobacco displays make it harder for smokers to quit. Also a display ban for cigarettes would discourage young people from starting to smoke. Public submissions close 15 February 2008. (pi)