Scottish Beer and Pub Association raises concern over cigarette vending machine ban
The Scottish Beer and Pub Association (SBPA) has expressed concern at the lack of current guidance to the licensed trade following the Scottish Government's announcement that a ban on cigarette vending machines will come into force on 29 April 2013.
Patrick Browne, chief executive of the SBPA, said: "Since the Scottish Government legislated to ban cigarette vending machines in Scotland in 2010, the SBPA has been asking for guidance for operators as to how they can and cannot operate cigarette vending machines in their premises.
"From discussions with Scottish Government officials, it is our view that the intention of the legislation is not totally clear from the actual wording of the Act. We have a concern that without fuller guidance for stakeholders, including enforcement officers, that operators may be subject to inappropriate enforcement action."
He said that the Scottish Government has promised further guidance but raised concern that this is actioned swiftly.
