Guidance on how retailers should comply with the new tobacco display ban regulations in England, which come into force on April 6, 2012 for stores above 280 sqm, has been published by the Department of Health.

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “ACS has worked closely with government officials to make sure this guidance takes account of the practical difficulties retailers will experience, and ensure it will provide clarity to retailers on the requirements and their responsibilities under the new regulations.

“While we welcome the guidance, it is disappointing this has taken so long to be published. The regulations will come in to force for large retailers next April, yet they are only now being given the detail of the requirements they face.”

The guidance can be found in the lobbying section of www.acs.org.uk.