The Government confirmed yesterday it will not introduce legislation to ban retail tobacco displays, saying evidence does not link the move with decreasing smoking rates.
The decision came despite the parliamentary health select committee and the New Zealand Medical Association (NZMA) wanting tobacco displays moved out of sight.
Health Minister Tony Ryall focused on the committee's report, from September last year, which noted evidence could not directly link the banning of displays to a decrease in smoking rates.
However, the Government would give the issue further consideration if research proved otherwise.
"The Government will consider any options, including legislation, if international or domestic research gives us a compelling case that it would lead to a significant decrease in tobacco use," Mr Ryall said.
The Ministry of Health would monitor international moves in the area of tobacco use, he said.
NZMA chairman Dr Peter Foley said the association wanted New Zealand to be a world leader in tackling the harm caused by smoking.
"Stopping the tobacco industry from advertising its products at point of sale is a vital step towards ensuring that the next generation of young New Zealanders don't get hooked on an addictive product which kills half of its long-term users," he said.
The New Zealand Cancer Society health promotion adviser Belinda Keenan said the society believed it was a good thing the Government was open to re-considering the ban.
The society believed there was strong evidence behind the impact of displays and would be providing more research to ensure young people were protected from smoking.
"It will happen. It's just about timing," Ms Keenan said.
However, the decision was welcomed by Dunedin tobacco retailers and Stay Display members, a national coalition group against proposals to ban tobacco displays.
Andy's Milk Bar owner Brent Phillips described it as a "great relief".
"It's very good for businesses like us, because we are finding things hard enough as it is."
Waihola Store owner Robynne McClelland agreed and said business would carry on as usual.
"I think they have made the right decision."
