Cigarette Vending Machines Banned In Wales

An official ban on cigarette vending machines has come into effect in Wales, following on from a similar ban implemented in England.

Any businesses caught using these vending machines could be subject to a £2,500 fine if caught, according to BBC News. It will be up to the local trading standards authority to enforce the ban.

The move has received mixed reviews. Whilst Steve Whitehouse, the chair of Wales' trading standards body, said it was a "step in the right direction" to reducing under-age smoking, a spokesperson from the pro-smoking organisation Forest felt it was an unfair action to take.

Simon Clark, the group's director, argued: "This is about denormalisation, it is designed to take cigarettes out of the public perception. If children want to get hold of cigarettes they won't go to the most expensive place to do it."

However the move may be more well-received by those in Wales attempting to kick the habit via willpower or other methods, like hypnotherapy, as it could mean one less temptation they have to face.

This sentiment was echoed by Lesley Griffiths, the Welsh minister for health. She explained to This is South Wales that removing these vending machines and any associated tobacco advertising could "support" the efforts of Welsh adults attempting smoking cessation.