Tobacco sellers face jail over new register

Tobacco retailers could face up to six months in jail if they fail to sign up to a new register.

All those selling cigarettes and other tobacco products have six months to join the register of tobacco retailers. Those who fail to do so could face a fine of up to 20,000 or time in prison.

The Scottish Government expects 15,000 to 20,000 retailers to sign up to the register, which public health minister Shona Robison said would help trading standards officers crack down on illicit tobacco sales.

She stressed the online registration process would be "simple" to complete and free, with those selling tobacco having from 1 April to 1 October to join.

The scheme is being brought in under the Tobacco and Primary Medical Services (Scotland) Act.

The legislation will also introduce a ban on tobacco displays in stores and end the sale of cigarettes through machines.

Ms Robison said: "There is no doubt cigarettes cause harm and that's why I believe it's right that those who sell cigarettes should be registered, allowing trading standards officers to better enforce age restrictions and helping crack down on illicit sales.

"We were also conscious of the need not to burden responsible retailers with bureaucracy."