The new Scottish government has confirmed it will be illegal for retailers to sell tobacco to under-18s from October 2007.
The decision, which was backed by the previous Scottish Executive, will mean the increase will come into effect at the same time as in England and Wales.
The Scottish Grocers' Federation (SGF) welcomed the move, but echoed warnings from other trade associations that it would put additional pressure on store workers to police the new laws.
It also called for the introduction of a free national proof-of-age card for 15- to 25-year-olds as well as a primetime advertising campaign to raise awareness of the forthcoming change.

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