Go-ahead given by Minister for standardised packaging for cigarettes to be introduced in Wales

A new law to introduce standardised packaging for cigarettes and hand rolling tobacco will apply in Wales, Health and Social Services Minister Mark Drakeford has confirmed.

The regulations, which will be subject to a vote by MPs, are intended to come into force in May 2016.The Children and Families Act 2014 gives the Secretary of State enabling powers to make regulations to regulate the retail packaging of tobacco products; regulate the markings on and appearance of tobacco products; and create associated offences. The Secretary of State’s regulation-making power extends to the whole of the UK.

However, the Secretary of State must seek the consent of Welsh Ministers before making regulations which contain provisions within the legislative competence of the National Assembly.

Professor Drakeford said:

“I have today written to the UK Government’s Public Health Minister confirming my approval that proposed regulations to introduce standardised packaging for cigarettes and hand rolling tobacco will apply in Wales.

I welcome this move, which will play an important part in our efforts to tackle the harm caused by tobacco.

The Welsh Government will continue to work to reduce smoking levels in Wales to 16% by 2020.”