Menthols And Packs Of 10 Cigarettes Banned

By 2022 Menthol Cigarettes, along with other flavours,will be totally banned. The reasoning behind targeting Menthols is that studies have revealed they have a higher appeal to younger smokers. As smokers tend to start young, it is thought this will be the best course of action in preventing people from taking up smoking in the first place.

Currently only the draft law has been passed, so it will be voted on again next year. However with 700,000 people dying each year from smoking related diseases, this move is likely to still be supported.

However as there are over one million people in the UK alone who smoke Menthols, there are concerns that banning them will simply create a place for them on the black market. This could lead to a further problem, as the desirability might well be increased because they are not allowed.

Health warnings will cover 65% of the packaging, which will aim to dissuade potential starters with graphic images of potential consequences to smoking.

In addition, packs of ten will also be banned due to their affordability. This has led to concerns that people will simply buy the bigger packs and smoke more. In addition, this move may make it harder for people to successfully quit, as a common tactic when cutting down to simply buy the smaller packs so that the temptation isn’t there.

As ever when on the subject of smoking, there are two opposing opinions on these latest developments. Pro-smoking groups believe the new 65% health warning is excessive, whereas Anti-smoking groups believe it’s not enough.