Tobacco News and Interesting Information

Debate has begun in the Lower House of the Tasmanian Parliament to ban smoking in cars in which there are children.

The legislation will also outlaw the sale of confectionery flavoured cigarettes and reduce the size of point of sale advertising from four square metres to one.

While the changes have the support of all political parties, both the Liberals and Greens have flagged amendments for a total ban on tobacco advertising in shops.

The Liberal's health spokesman Brett Whiteley told parliament he wants the change phased in over the next three years, giving retailers time to adjust.

"It is a constant battle for people who have quit smoking or are trying to do, trying to quit smoking to keep away from cigarettes when they are thrust in one's face each and every day," he said.

"Further, more children are exposed to tobacco every time they stand at a counter with a parent or they buy lollies for themselves."