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Reducing Tobacco Advertising and Promotion
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Last modified date:25 June 2007
Strong evidence exists linking the prohibition of tobacco advertising with a decrease in smoking levels. That is why the UK has a comprehensive ban - just like many other countries in Europe and beyond. It is estimated that in the long term, the UK advertising ban will lead to a 2.5% decrease in smoking levels.
What does the advertising ban cover?
The Tobacco Advertising and Promotion Act 2002 prohibits the advertising and promotion of tobacco products in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, including sponsorship. There are limited exemptions for specialist tobacconists and at the 'point of sale' in retail outlets/vending machines, both covered by regulations (see below). Separate regulations also prohibit 'brandsharing' - the promotion of a tobacco product by another product (eg clothing, perfume etc) or vice versa. Regulations prohibiting tobacco advertising on the internet came into force in September 2006.
The Tobacco Advertising and Promotion Act 2002 brings the UK in line with a European Directive which prohibits any tobacco advertising with a potentially cross-border effect across the EU.
Links to the legislation
- Tobacco Advertising and Promotion Act 2002 (opens new window)
- The Tobacco Advertising and Promotion (Point of Sale) Regulations 2004 (opens new window)
- The Tobacco Advertising and Promotion (Specialist Tobacconists) Regulations 2004 (opens new window)
- The Tobacco Advertising and Promotion (Brandsharing) Regulations 2004 (opens new window)
- Tobacco Advertising and Promotion Act 2002 etc. (Amendment) Regulations 2006 (opens new window)
- Directive 2003/33/EC on the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States relating to the advertising and sponsorship of tobacco products (opens new window)
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