§ Mr. David ShawTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will publish the first report of the committee for monitoring agreements on tobacco advertising and sponsorship; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. CurrieThe committee for monitoring agreements on tobacco advertising and sponsorship has submitted its first report and copies have been placed in the Library. The Government are grateful to the committee and its chairman Sir Peter Lazarus for their excellent work in monitoring the agreements and for their first report.
The report shows that in general the system of voluntary agreements which govern tobacco advertising, 158W health warnings and sports sponsorship are working and that the tobacco companies are honouring their commitments. The chairman has highlighted areas where he feels the agreements are inadequate and we will take note of these points in negotiating future agreements with the industry.
We note and share his concern that the tobacco advertising on retail outlets put in place before the current agreement and which would not comply with current agreements if put in place since 1 April 1986 should be replaced more quickly than currently envisaged by the tobacco companies. We note the suggestion that the committee would benefit from more secretariat support and this will be considered.
The Government remain concerned about the impact of cigarette advertising, especially where children and young women are concerned. The present agreement on advertising expires at the end of next year. We shall be seeking to open negotiations with the industry as soon as possible to achieve a new agreement which reflects current needs.