To ask the Secretary of State for Health what discussions he has had on the impact of introducing a requirement for tobacco sellers to obtain a licence before being able to sell tobacco; and if he will make a statement. (154993)

The Government consulted on the introduction of licensing for tobacco products in 2006. The majority of respondents favoured the introduction of a negative licensing scheme under which a retailer is free to sell tobacco products unless they have been found to persistently flout the law on under-age sale. Following the conclusion of the consultation the Government now intend to bring forward legislation at the next first legislative opportunity.

A copy of the consultation is available in the library.