ASH fuming after Bill is voted down

The anti-smoking lobby, Action on Smoking & Health (ASH) has vowed to continue its battle against the tobacco industry, despite the latest setback in its campaign to win greater health warnings on cigarette packets.

The anti-smoking lobby, Action on Smoking & Health (ASH) has vowed to continue its battle against the tobacco industry, despite the latest setback in its campaign to win greater health warnings on cigarette packets.

Labour MP Terry Lewis (Worsley) failed in the House of Commons last week to win larger warnings through a Private Member’s Bill. But ASH, and other health groups, will return with tougher proposed legislation later in the year, reviving the prospect of a total advertising ban.

“It is a blow, but it will not be long before we see a full advertising ban.” says former ASH director David Pollock.

An attempt to ban tobacco ads last year by Kevin Barron MP was cut short by the redrafting of a voluntary code between the Government and the industry.