Smokers warned over new cigarette laws

From 21 May 2017, smokers will no longer be able to buy cigarettes in packs of 10, and smaller packs of hand-roll tobacco containing less than 30g will disappear from shelves.

That means the cheapest packet of cigarettes available to purchase will cost £8.82.

Some flavoured cigarettes and roll-your-own tobacco, with appealing flavours including alcohol, candy and vanilla will be made illegal, and the sale of menthol cigarettes will be gradually phased out by 2020.

Packaging will also change – with cigarette and tobacco packets set to be plain, with graphic images which show the impact tobacco has on health.

The laws have been introduced in a bid to cut smoking-related deaths and deter young people from smoking.

The new rules came into effect in May last year, but shops and suppliers were given a year to sell old stock.

Dannielle Conte, senior LiveWire advisor for stop smoking, said: “Smoking is already an expensive habit, with people who smoke 15 a day spending on average £205 per month on cigarettes.

“It is hoped that these new laws will make people think twice about spending nearly £9 on a packet of cigarettes, as opposed to the £3 or £4 a pack that they pay now”

The LiveWire stop smoking service offers free support face-to-face, online, and over the phone.

Dannielle, continued: “Research shows that smokers are four times more likely to quit with support from our stop smoking service.

“We can support you to achieve this through friendly, expert advice and support. It doesn’t matter if you have visited us before but it didn’t quite work out, you can access support as many times as you need.”

Contact LiveWire’s stop smoking service for free support and advice today on 0300 003 0818.