A recent operation by West Dunbartonshire’s Trading Standards Section revealed that one in four retailers sold cigarettes to children without any questions or checks being done on their age!
Councillor Craig McLaughlin, spokesperson for Corporate Services, said “Given the well known health problems associated with tobacco consumption it is concerning that such a high proportion of retailers are prepared to sell cigarettes to kids without any checks being made. Clearly the message is not getting through that we will not tolerate this behaviour in West Dunbartonshire and I am confident that our Trading Standards Section will take the necessary action to combat such behaviour.”
West Dunbartonshire Council Trading Standards Officer, Nicky Johnston said “We conducted covert visits to 16 premises recently with specially trained children and 4 shopkeepers sold a 20 pack of cigarettes to a 15 or 16 year old – no questions asked! Whilst I would commend the majority of retailers who rightly refused the sale, I was disappointed to observe a number of sales take place. It is astonishing that some shopkeepers care more about increasing profits than the health of our nation’s children, especially when the average mark-up of a packet of cigarettes is only about 25 pence”
Nicky added “In two instances the attitude of the offenders, following their detection, was disgraceful and as such two males aged 41 and 38 are subjects of reports being submitted to the Procurator Fiscal. Upon conviction this offence carries a maximum fine of £2,500. Three other individuals are being issued with warning letters and will be subject to further checks to ensure compliance. A number of other shops in West Dunbartonshire who I suspect of being involved in the supply of cigarettes to children will be the subject of undercover visits from us very soon, and if offences are detected they will de dealt with in a similar manner.
If any members of the public have concerns about their local shop selling cigarettes to children I would urge them to call 01389 738552 and I would be delighted to speak with them in confidence in order to further any investigations which may arise.”
