Member

Checking on age is tough at the best of times, but increasing proof-of-age ID checks on tobacco buyers of any age, which is what will eventually happen, could trigger an escalation of tensions, abuse and even violence for hard-pressed retailers. We heard some very important testimony in the first group about that issue. Anything the Government can do to ease these tensions and to help retailers cope with the very challenging demands this Bill will place on shopkeepers is to be welcomed. That is why I am drawn to Amendment 26 in the name of the noble Lord, Lord Udny-Lister.