Praise for pubs that ditch cigarette machines

Pubs are being urged to remove cigarette vending machines from their premises in a bid to stop youngsters smoking.

A government consultation is currently underway on the issue as part of a review of its tobacco strategy.

But pubs in Middlesbrough have been asked by the mayor to voluntarily remove the machines after trading standards tests revealed only two out of 10 pubs stopped a 13-year-old using them.

Pubs that agree to take part will be given a certificate and placed on a roll of honour.

However, there has been a mixed response from licensees to the scheme.

Charlie Seed, licensee of the Navigation Inn, in North Ormesby, said: "It wouldn't bother me at all because we don't make any money from those machines but you won't find youngsters in here anyway because we would get huge fines."

Frances McKy of the Tavern in Middlesbrough said she welcomed the move.

"It is our responsibility to make sure youngsters do not get in. That is not always easy when, like us, you have five entrances and are busy, this helps so I am in favour."

Middlesbrough Council has teamed-up with the local Primary Care Trust to launch the drive.

Mayor Ray Mallon said: "The government has recognised that there is a problem here but where children's health is concerned we can't afford to wait for laws to be introduced.

He added: "The vast majority of local pub owners have acted responsibly and enforced the ban on smoking in public buildings.

"I hope that faced with the evidence we have, everyone will support this latest initiative."