Maidenhead & Windsor

The Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough's trading standards team is offering advice to retailers over a change in law coming into force on October 1 when the legal age to buy cigarettes and tobacco will rise from 16 to 18.

This campaign includes visiting shops to explain the change in legislation as well as sending information to traders who are affected. Young people are being made aware of the situation by an extensive publicity campaign.

As with the implementation of the recent smokefree legislation by the environmental health team, Windsor and Maidenhead trading standards will be following up visits to businesses once the new law has come into force, and they will be carrying out undercover checks to ensure retailers and young people are adhering to the new law.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for highways, transport and environment, welcomed the move. He said: "The UK is estimated to have around 200,000 smokers aged 16 and 17 who - from this date - will not legally be allowed to buy tobacco.

"This will have huge benefits for these youngsters whose smoking is posing a great risk to their health, and that of those around them. We must do everything we can to educate these young people about the dangers of smoking."

Steve Johnson, Windsor and Maidenhead trading standards manager, said he was pleased with response so far. He said: "Our officers have been working hard to ensure affected businesses know about the change in the law and they have been positive about this. Trading standards will continue to monitor the situation.

"Anyone who wants more information can call trading standards on 01628 683802 or email trading.standards@rbwm.gov.uk

A dedicated website - www.tobaccoagechange.co.uk - has been launched to provide retailers with information on the change in legislation, and the Department of Health is working with stakeholders, such as retail organisations and proof of age schemes, to share information with their members.

Windsor and Maidenhead Trading Standards officers are issuing the following advice to retailers:

· Always ask for proof of age, such as a PASS accredited proof of age card or other appropriate photo ID such as a passport or photo driving licence
· Train staff on a regular basis - and keep records that this has been carried out
· Implement a refusals register
· Prominently display statutory signage that indicates the 18 years age restriction on tobacco products.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead