Here is a contradiction to rival even the Govt's support (at 12pc interest) of the banks. Point of sale displays for tobacco products are being banned on public health grounds. Quite right. An appalling, filthy habit. Personally, I think smokers should be shot on sight to cut long-term spending in the health service.
But the ban is being delayed because corner shops fear that they will lose trade, thus spreading the contagion of recession. And of course, the duty and VAT are useful to the Exchequer. The story is in the print version of The Times, though not online.
