DISPLAY OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS

Early day motion 885, tabled 25 February 2009 by Mike Penning (Conservative). Signed by 87 members.

That this House acknowledges the hard work of small and independent retailers; congratulates them on the vital role they play in many diverse communities across the country; recognises the ongoing economic and commercial pressures threatening their viability and survival; is concerned that the regulatory burden placed upon them should be maintained at an appropriate level; expresses its concern that proposed measures to ban the display of tobacco products in small shops are not balanced, proportionate or firmly evidence-based; calls upon the Government to further consider the effects of the measures on the viability of small shops and the market in illicit tobacco; welcomes Government action to address illegal sales of tobacco; and urges the Government to pursue the most effective and proven measures by which under-18 year olds can be deterred from smoking.

Signatures by party: Conservative 46, Labour 21, Liberal Democrat 16, Independent 3, Respect 1.