Ban tobacco displays says child health group

Ban tobacco displays says child health and wellbeing group

Parents Centres New Zealand Inc says children must be protected from tobacco advertising, and is pleased the Government is continuing to consult on the display of tobacco products in shops.

Associate Minister of Health Hon Tariana Turia has announced that further consultation will take place on options for removing tobacco products from display in retail outlets.

“Parents don't want their children to become smokers – but they can't do it alone,” says Parents Centres New Zealand Chief Executive Viv Gurrey.

"Many pregnant women also face the challenges of giving up smoking – we should support them in that choice. Research clearly shows the impact of smoking on both the mother and unborn child.

“Often cigarettes are displayed very close to discretionary spend items, sending a clear message to children that tobacco is just another product endorsed by adults. It’s misleading and undermines the values many parents aim to communicate to their children.

“We know that children and adolescents who are frequently exposed to tobacco displays are more likely to experiment and start smoking.”

Ms Gurrey says tobacco displays are just another way for the tobacco industry to advertise.

“Since conventional forms of tobacco advertising were banned, the tobacco industry has increased its focus on retail settings. Cigarette displays in retail outlets are a highly effective marketing tool. They create product awareness, reinforce brand imagery, provide subliminal enticement and encourage sales.

“Research shows displays ‘normalise’ cigarettes for children and trigger impulse purchases by what the tobacco industry calls ‘learner smokers’ – our children!”

Parents Centres New Zealand Inc is urging the Government to carefully consider the evidence and make the right decision – removing tobacco displays from shops.

ENDS

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