News

30% of smokers get their tobacco from ‘non-shop’ sources

Published

12 years ago

June 4, 2014

A MAJOR new survey of 12,000 adult smokers across the UK has revealed that 30% in the Wales region buy their tobacco regularly from “non-shop” sources such as pubs, car boot sales and market stalls who offer much lower prices than high street shops.

The survey by the Tobacco Manufacturers’ Association, which received input from HM Revenue & Customs, also found that 31% of smokers are aware of illegal, smuggled and counterfeit tobacco being sold in their area, with prices typically less than £4 per pack of 20. However, only 11% reported it to the authorities, as the majority said it was ‘none of their business’; others ‘didn’t know who to tell’ or were ‘afraid to report it in case they got into trouble’. The survey, which asked a series of questions in relation to smokers’ attitudes, awareness and behaviour, revealed that saving money was the main motivator for buying illegal tobacco products. Mike Goodall, Regional Manager of the Tobacco Manufacturers’ Association (TMA), commented: “These results highlight the volume and widespread availability of illegal tobacco across the UK, which is causing untold damage to legitimate retail businesses. The economy is improving, but living standards have yet to catch up, therefore smokers are continuing to buy tobacco from outside the legal supply chain. “The Government needs to provide much greater support for law enforcement agencies to help stem the flow of illegal tobacco, and provide greater reassurance to the public and retailers that reporting illegal tobacco will result in action being taken.”

Crime

Stolen vehicle investigation after late-night crash in Waterston

Published

5 minutes ago

May 18, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A VEHICLE involved in a late-night single-vehicle crash in Waterston, Milford Haven, is believed to have been stolen, police have confirmed.

Dyfed-Powys Police said officers received a report of the collision at around 11:55pm on Sunday (May 17).

The vehicle was recovered at approximately 1:15am on Monday (May 18), but nobody was found at the scene.

Following enquiries, police established that the vehicle had reportedly been stolen at some point during Sunday evening.

Officers said enquiries into the incident are ongoing.

News

Labour names Senedd spokesperson team after election defeat

Published

29 minutes ago

May 18, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Ken Skates says group will focus on holding new Welsh Government to account

INTERIM Welsh Labour leader Ken Skates has unveiled the party’s Senedd spokesperson team following its defeat in the recent election.

Mr Skates will act as interim leader of Welsh Labour and spokesperson for health, care and national security.

He said the Labour group would draw on “extensive experience” while bringing “fresh energy and ideas” to its work in opposition.

The party said its Senedd group was committed to holding the new Welsh Government to account and pushing for practical results for the people of Wales.

Jayne Bryant MS has been appointed spokesperson for housing, communities, public and preventative health, with women’s health also included in her brief.

Mike Hedges MS will cover culture, sport, local government and legislation.

Vikki Howells MS becomes Chief Whip and spokesperson for environment, farming, energy and transport. Her portfolio also includes planning.

Lynne Neagle MS has been named Business Manager and spokesperson for children, education and lifelong learning.

Shav Taj MS will cover employment, equalities and economic transformation, including social partnership.

Huw Thomas MS has been appointed spokesperson for finance, democracy, citizenship and the Welsh language. Regional and city deals will also fall within his brief.

Welsh Labour said Sarah Murphy’s portfolio will be announced when she returns from maternity leave.

A photo call with the Welsh Labour Senedd Group is due to take place in Cardiff Bay on Tuesday (May 19), although no interviews will be available.

News

Welsh Secretary holds first call with new First Minister

Published

59 minutes ago

May 18, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Jo Stevens and Rhun ap Iorwerth discuss poverty, public services, clean energy, steelmaking and economic growth

WELSH Secretary Jo Stevens has held her first call with Wales’ new First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth following the recent Senedd election.

The call took place today, Monday (May 18), with Ms Stevens congratulating Mr ap Iorwerth on Plaid Cymru’s election results and his appointment as First Minister.

The Welsh Secretary said it was important for the UK and Welsh Governments to work constructively together on shared priorities.

Those issues include the cost of living, poverty, public services, economic growth and the delivery of clean energy infrastructure in Wales.

Ms Stevens also raised the importance of collaboration on Welsh steelmaking and the transition at Port Talbot, as well as growth funds, defence and national security.

The conversation follows a call last week between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the new First Minister, during which Mr Starmer also congratulated him on his appointment.

The Prime Minister has offered to meet Mr ap Iorwerth in person in June to discuss shared issues and priorities.