Tobacco ban delayed by legal appeal

A BAN on tobacco displays in shops has been delayed because of an ongoing legal challenge by cigarette manufacturers.

The Scottish Government has confirmed that Imperial Tobacco is appealing against a decision dismissing its original challenge last year.

Parliament voted to ban the open display of tobacco in legislation passed last January and the ban was due to become enforceable for large retailers on 1 October.

Public health minister Shona Robison said: "The ban on displaying tobacco products in shops is being introduced to make cigarettes less attractive to children and young people.

"We remain fully committed to this policy, however the ongoing legal challenge means that an October start date is now unrealistic.

"We will announce the new implementation date as soon as possible."

Large retailers were given until October to implement the display ban, which has now been delayed, while smaller retailers have until 2013. The timing of the vending machine ban is not affected by the challenge and is due to go ahead in October, the government said, adding that the appeal is expected to be heard later this year.