SS 13.30-15.00 Special sessions
A REVIEW OF ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITY ON ILLEGAL SALES OF CIGARETTES TO CHILDREN IN ENGLAND
- AUTHORS: P Hooper, A Mould*
- INSTITUTIONS: Smoke Free Birmingham, Birmingham, England, Environmental Services Department Birmingham City Council, Birmingham, England*
A national survey of Local Authorities involved in the enforcement of legislation relating to illegal sales of cigarettes to young people was carried out together with a complimentary survey of Health Promotion Units.
Three newsletters were produced to publicise the issue and report the results of the surveys. Networking, good practice and the sharing of resources and ideas was encouraged.
A telephone help-line advised professionals and provided detailed specific information and assistance.
The survey of Local Authorities showed an increase in:
- - pro-active enforcement activities - including the involvement of volunteer children in test purchase programmes,
- - the number of spot checks made on vending machines and retail sales warning notices,
- - complaint investigations and prosecutions.
The survey of Health Promotions Units showed a varied level of involvement but a rising level of intended activity.
England has had an increase of activity in this field of work but this is not an uniform across the country nor a matter of policy for all Local Authorities.
The review has encouraged a greater level of integration between Trading Standards Departments and Health Promotion Departments and has raised awareness of the issue amongst Councillors, Magistrates, Enforcement Professionals and Health Promotion Officers.
Smoke Free Europe Conference Abstracts - 19 SEP 1996
Generated with Harlequin WebMaker