PLANS to standardise cigarette packaging have been backed by Somerset County Council’s public health team.

The Government has announced an amendment to the Children’s and Families Bill that would allow standardised packaging of cigarettes and tobacco to be introduced.

Stewart Brock, the county council’s lead specialist on stopping smoking, said: “Cigarette packs are now the key marketing tool employed by the tobacco industry to attract and retain customers.

“Stopping cigarettes being marketed to children as a glamorous and desirable accessory is one of the greatest gifts we can give the next generation.”

Any evidence supporting standardised packaging for cigarettes will be reviewed, with a report due in March before any potential changes take place