Ashtray with every cigarette packet

MPs say the number of discarded cigarettes on the street has grown since the 2008 smoking ban

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TOBACCONISTS in France could be required to provide a free disposable ashtray with every packet of cigarettes they sell under a new law being considered by MPs.

The National Assembly's environment committee has drawn up the proposed law in an attempt to reduce the number of cigarette butts discarded in public places since the smoking ban came into force in 2008.

The pocket ashtray would be biodegradable - made from recyclable card - and would also be provided to customers buying cigars and tobacco for rolling.

British American Tobacco (BAT) has been conducting its own trial into the disposable ashtrays at French beach resorts and ski resorts since 2008.

Anti-smoking groups say the BAT initiative is just a commercial gesture, providing the company with another way of promoting its brand.

Tobacconists' unions say it is not yet clear enough how the scheme will work and it is reserving judgment until more information comes out.

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