Politicians hope the law change will benefit islanders' health

The age at which people can legally buy cigarettes was increased from 16 to 18 after plans approved by the States in November were introduced this month.

The Youth Council said it was not against the change.

But it added that its members felt there was not enough discussion between young people and States members before the decision was made.

Smoking illnesses

The Council is meeting with politicians to discuss the changes at a meeting at 1900 GMT on Tuesday at St Helier Town Hall.

The age reduction law was brought in after a proposal was brought to the States by Jersey's health authorities last year as part of a scheme to cut down on smoking in society.

Figures in Jersey show a quarter of all people aged 14 to 15 smoke regularly, with over half the people in that group saying they buy cigarettes illegally.

Jersey health chiefs believe 200 islanders die each year from smoking-related illnesses.