Picture Warnings

Graphic images illustrating the devastating effects that tobacco can have on health will be printed on all tobacco packets from next year Health Secretary Alan Johnson announced recently.

The 15 images to be used were chosen following a consultation in 2006, market research and a public vote. The move makes the UK the first country in the EU to introduce such visual warnings on all tobacco products aimed at raising awareness, helping smokers who want to quit and further reducing smoking related illnesses.

Alan Johnson said:

“Picture warnings are the next vital step in reducing the number of people who smoke. We are committed to continuing to drive down smoking rates in the UK as smoking remains the number one cause of ill health and early death.

“We have already made a lot of progress with stark written warnings on cigarette packs. Today’s announcement, together with the introduction of the smokefree law last month and our plans to raise the legal age of sale for tobacco products will potentially save thousands of lives and others will be spared the misery of watching family and friends die prematurely from smoke related illnesses.”