Cheshire East Council’s Consumer Protection and Investigations (CP and I) department have rolled out their successful work with retailers into local pubs in Crewe.
Officers are working closely with five landlords after a recent crackdown on sales of cigarettes to under-18s via vending machines.
Cheshire East Council officers joined forces with Cheshire Constabulary and the Department of Health to conduct the operation earlier this month (October 4-8).
They visited nine pubs in Crewe; using volunteers aged 13 and 14. Five of the premises allowed the teenagers to purchase cigarettes from the vending machine. A sixth sale was prevented by a member of the public.
The owners of the premises are now working closely with officers from CP and I on how to avoid these situations in the future. This follows similar successful work with local retailers as part of Operation Zest last month.
In 2009, MPs supported the Health Bill, now going through the House of Lords, which would outlaw cigarette vending machines in England, Wales and Northern Ireland from October, 2011.
Cheshire East Councillor Rachel Bailey, Cabinet member with responsibility for safer and stronger communities, said: “Underage sales are a primary concern of Cheshire East Council. These operations are about tackling the problem whilst educating and advising retailers on good practice.
“I would like to thank the CP and I team for their hard-work. As a result, there are a number of premises taking additional measures to prevent these sales in the future by way of a token which is purchased with cash at bar in order to use the vending machine.”
Kay Roberts, Consumer Protection and Investigations manager, added: “Vending machines are often neglected by bar staff at pubs and restaurants. The proposed ban in October 2011 would be a major step forward in reducing underage sales.
“Meanwhile, our team are taking extra measures to ensure they are regulated as a priority alongside alcohol, knives and other age restricted products.”
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