HC Deb 04 July 1957 vol 572 cc1284-5
20. Mr. Beswick

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the evidence which has satisfied him that the present powers to prevent the purchase of tobacco by schoolchildren are adequate.

Mr. R. A. Butler

None, Sir; but equally I have no evidence to the contrary. As I said in reply to the hon. Member on 9th May, Section 7 of the Children and Young Persons Act, 1933, makes it an offence to sell tobacco to anyone apparently under the age of 16 years; and I have no reason to think that the provisions of the Section are not adequately observed.

Mr. Beswick

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think it rather unfortunate that he should give this opinion when, as he now says, he has no evidence on which to base an opinion? If he requires evidence, will he turn to the Answer given to me by the Minister of Education, who said on 6th June that in his view: there is sufficient evidence in common experience for the statement that cigarettes are not so difficult for children to obtain…".—[OFFICIAL REPORT, 6th June, 1957; Vol. 571, c. 128.]? In view of the Medical Research Council's Report, will the right hon. Gentleman have another look at the matter to see whether the provisions are sufficient for him to take action? If they are not, will he ask for extra power?

Mr. Butler

For the same reason as I gave in connection with drink for young persons, it is very difficult to ascertain absolutely the age of a person to whom sales are made. That is why I said "apparently" under the age of 16. There can be no absolute rule in this matter. I suggest that the course for those who are very worried about it is to put evidence to the Ingleby Committee which is still sitting and which may be able to make some recommendations.