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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Olivia Tobin

Menthol ban will include click dual flavoured cigarettes as 2020 new law looms

New tobacco laws will see dual flavoured cigarettes banned as early as next year.

Menthol cigarettes are currently in a four-year-phasing-out period, which started in May 2016 and will be completed by May 20, 2020.

The ECHO previously revealed this will include a ban on roll-your-own tobacco and cigarettes.

But it has been revealed the ban will also see the production of click dual cigarettes - such as Sterling Dual - that change from normal to menthol, stopped.

The phase out, according to the charity ASH - Action on Smoking and Heath - is to deter younger people from smoking.

ASH outlined to the ECHO what will be allowed and what won't.

A spokeswoman said: "No person may produce or supply cigarettes or hand rolling tobacco with:

"(a)a filter, paper, package, capsule or other component containing flavourings;

"(b)a filter, paper or capsule containing tobacco or nicotine; or

"(c)a technical feature allowing the consumer to modify the smell, taste, or smoke intensity of the product."

Deborah Arnott, Chief Executive of Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) said: “Menthol in cigarettes makes it easier for children to try smoking and harder for smokers to quit, which is why ASH supports the ban that comes into effect in May this year.

"It is a myth that menthol cigarettes are better for you. All cigarettes are harmful and menthol cigarettes are just as dangerous as any other.”

The brand name will be written in a standard font, size and location and the new health warnings will cover 60% of the pack.

Amanda also said there was no evidence to suggest menthol cigarettes made it easier for people to smoke.

She said: “It is naturally hard to inhale smoke and for many the first time they smoke it is repugnant, but people persevere and that it when they become addicted.

“There is evidence that menthol cigarettes relax the airways and the flavour masks the harshness of the smoke, therefore younger people find it easier to smoke.

“However it is an absolute myth that menthol cigarettes are better for you.

“All cigarettes are harmful and menthol cigarettes are just as dangerous as normal cigarettes.”

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