CAMPAIGNERS in the region have welcomed new measures to tighten up laws aimed at reducing the number of children who take up smoking each year.

The Government has announced plans to ban electronic cigarette sales to under-18s and also make it illegal for adults to buy tobacco products for under-18s.

Around 9,000 North-East children are known to start smoking tobacco each year, with tobacco killing half of all lifetime users.

While there is currently no evidence non-smoking children are using electronic cigarettes as a gateway to tobacco smoking, there is mounting concern about glamorous advertising featuring sport and celebrities to promote the products.

Ailsa Rutter, director of Fresh – the North-East’s own tobacco control office - said: “We fully support the government decision to make it illegal to sell e-cigarettes to under 18s.

"Even though electronic cigarettes are almost certainly much less harmful than tobacco, which kills one in two long term smokers, we do not want children getting hooked on nicotine.

“Research so far suggests it is mainly children already smoking who are trying electronic cigarettes, but the current lack of any age of sale is a loophole that needs closing. Electronic cigarette firms are linking up with celebrities and football clubs – just the sort of promotion likely to turn children’s heads.

"We also know that a source of cigarettes for children is adults going into shops and buying on their behalf. This will send out a clear message this is illegal.”

She added: “Putting tobacco into standardised, plain packets with larger health warnings will be one of the most important steps to reduce the appeal of smoking to children and young people.
"We are urging all members of the House of Lords to back this Government amendment in the Children and Families Bill this Wednesday, January 29.”