Young back outlawing of tobacco ads

CHILDREN and young people in Edinburgh believe the banning of tobacco advertising in shops will make smoking less appealing.

The research, carried out by Cancer Research UK, found there was widespread support for the move among the very people the legislation is aimed at discouraging.

The study found that while smoking was still considered "cool, fun and attractive", taking cigarettes out of sight lessened their appeal to youngsters.

Dr Crawford Moodie, the organisation's lead researcher, said: "Discouraging young people from smoking remains a key goal in public health."

Twelve focus groups obtained the views of local youngsters aged between 11 and 16. There was also large support for the smoking ban in pubs and restaurants, and proposals to ban it around children.