Dirty tricks

Research by Stirling University, based on actual interviews with local retailers conducted over a period of two years, seems to have ruffled feathers at the Scottish Grocers’ Federation (Letters, 2 August).

Listening to what the retailers reported it is clear that tobacco companies are still trying to find ways to push their brands, sell their products, and maintain their profits. Given the nature of the tobacco industry that should surprise no-one.

But tobacco is not an ordinary consumer product. It is highly addictive, and at least half of long-term smokers will be killed by it. That is why it was right to ban promotional displays of tobacco products, against the long and vocal protests of the Scottish Grocers Federation.

When retailers themselves say that tobacco companies are approaching them with incentives it is a poor show for their own umbrella body to downplay the research or seek to rehash old grievances around the responsibilities that come with selling harmful substances.

The great majority of retailers understand those responsibilities, comply with tobacco display requirements, don’t sell to kids and steer clear of illicit products. My guess is that most of them would also prefer to run their businesses without feeling pressured to sell harmful products to addicted customers. I would prefer to see their representative body directing its energies towards building a future where they don’t have to.

SHEILA DUFFY Chief Executive

ASH Scotland Frederick Street, Edinburgh