Tobacco Products (Standardised Packaging)

Diane Abbott Excerpts

Thursday 3rd April 2014 Commons Chamber

[Jane Ellison]

I thank my hon. Friend for his comments. Taking every possible effective measure to stop children smoking is the mark of a sensible state, not a nanny state. I do not think any Member of the House would want any extra child to take up smoking, so every Government should look clearly at any effective policy that can serve to advance the achievement of our ends in that regard. Sir Cyril devotes a significant chapter in his report to illicit tobacco products, and I urge my hon. Friend to read it. Of the arguments in that area, Sir Cyril says, “I am not convinced”.

[Ms Diane Abbott (Hackney North and Stoke Newington) (Lab)]

The House listened with care to the Minister’s statement, and the backlash from her own Back-Benchers was predictable. The medical profession and doughty campaigners such as Action on Smoking and Health will be very glad that we are making progress on this issue. Can she confirm that she will bring forward the regulations before Christmas, so that standardised packaging is a reality before the general election?

[Jane Ellison]

I welcome the hon. Lady’s response. I know that she, as a former shadow Public Health Minister, takes a great interest in this area. I want to publish the draft regulations this month, alongside the short final consultation. The timetable that the Government are contemplating once a final decision is made should allow us to introduce the measure during this Parliament.