Pictorial Health Warnings

Responding to the Department of Health announcement today that pictorial health warnings on tobacco product packaging are to be introduced throughout the UK, Chris Ogden, Director of the Tobacco Manufacturers’ Association, said:

“We have been expecting this initiative from the government since engaging with the consultation on the introduction of picture warnings on tobacco packs last year. The government, however, is requiring the new warnings to be placed on all tobacco products in the UK, not just cigarettes.

The introduction of pictorial health warnings on cigarettes is less complex than other tobacco products. But configuring the new warnings to the wide range of pack sizes and shapes for cigars, handrolling and pipe tobacco presents a challenge as no formal EU guidance exists. It is essential, therefore, that the government clarifies the use of picture warnings on these other tobacco packs before production commences.”

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For further information please contact:

Zöe Walker, Manager Corporate Affairs

t: 020 7544 0115
m: 07790 060041
f: 020 7544 0117
e: zwalker@the-tma.org.uk

Notes to Editors:

• Health warnings have been on cigarette packs in the UK since 1971. All UK-based Companies place health warnings on all their packs worldwide even if there is no requirement to do so.
• Since December 2002 manufacturers have complied with UK regulations requiring a 30% front-of-pack and 40% back-of-pack textual warning.