Setting the StandardSetting the Standard
In March 2015, MPs voted in favour of plain, standard cigarette packs. It was a huge victory for public health, giving millions of children one less reason to start smoking.
Why did we campaign on this issue?
Two-thirds of smokers start before the age of 18, so tobacco companies were investing a fortune in innovative packaging that appealed to young people. Our evidence showed that making all packaging a standard shape, size and colour, and increasing the prominence of health warnings would make cigarettes less attractive to both adults and children.
How you made it happen
2012-2015: In total, around 90,000 of you supported the campaign. With 78,000 of you signing a petition, we started with Action on Smoking and Health (ASH). The campaign had the support of coalition of over 250 health and well-being organisations, the Chief Medical Officer and the World Health Organisation.
March 2015: Your hard work was finally rewarded with a ground-breaking vote – laws for standard packs were voted through by Parliament.
May 2016: Post May 2017, selling branded packs is illegal.