MPs are calling for new laws forcing underage smokers who try to buy cigarettes to pay £50 fines.

The move follows an investigation by The Argus which revealed shopkeepers across Sussex were selling tobacco to under 18s.

David Lepper, Labour MP for Brighton Pavilion, and Peter Bottomley, Tory MP for West Worthing, want the illegal purchase of tobacco to be punishable by fixed penalty notices in the same way as alcohol.

It follows the increase in the legal age for buying tobacco from 16 to 18 on October 1.

The change makes it illegal for shop keepers to sell cigarettes to under 18s - but not for under-18s to try to buy them.

The MPs hope making the underage purchase of cigarettes an offence would "relieve pressure" on shop owners who currently face abuse and hassle from teens without proper ID.

Last month The Argus reported that corner shops, off-licences, garages and even major supermarkets across Sussex were apparently flouting the new laws.

Some of those who were turning away people who did not have identification said they had been on the receiving end of aggressive behaviour.

Now Mr Lepper and Mr Bottomley have put their names to a Parliamentary motion which acknowledges that retailers may face intimidation or violence as a result of the change.

The early day motion, signed by 22 MPs, welcomes the increase in the legal minimum age for buying tobacco.

But, noting that fixed penalty notices can be issued to those under the age of 18 who attempt to buy alcohol, it says: "If it was an offence for those under the age of 18 years to attempt to purchase tobacco this would act as a deterrent to children from doing so and relieve pressure on shop owners and reduce potential violence."

The motion calls on the Government to "bring forward proposals to bring into line the legal penalties for the attempted purchase of tobacco with that of alcohol as well as increasing support in all areas for under 18s to quit smoking".

Mr Lepper told The Argus: "When the higher legal age first came in I said it had to be enforced and it's the job of shopkeepers to enforce it. They have been enforcing the alcohol ban and this is much the same. But no shop keeper should be subject to abuse or threats.

"With alcohol it's against the law to try and buy it as well as to sell it. It ought to be the same for tobacco products. This would give additional support to shop keepers."

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