Jersey government bans all cigarette advertising

Senator Maclean said the biggest effect of the ban would be felt at the airport's duty-free shop

Jersey's government has decided to ban all forms of cigarette advertising, including the display of packets.

The use of cigarette vending machines will also be outlawed.

A large majority of States members backed the Health Department's argument that the move would mean fewer young people taking up the habit.

The advertising ban was carried by 43 votes to two, while no members voted in favour of continuing to allow vending machines to be used in the island.

During debate, Senator Sarah Ferguson said the ban would "hit the shopkeepers where it hurts in the middle of a recession".

The Economic Development Minister, Senator Alan Maclean, said the biggest economic impact of the decision was likely to be felt at Jersey Airport's duty-free shop.

He said cigarettes made up the largest part of the sales there - especially to those leaving the island - and that helped to subsidise the costs of running the airport. But he said the ban was the right thing to do.