The Government is considering plans to outlaw cigarettes from being displayed in shops.

In a bid to reduce smoking and discourage children from starting, ministers are also proposing the removal of vending machines in pubs and restaurants.

Public Health Minister Dawn Primarolo said: "It's vital we get across the message to children that smoking is bad. If that means stripping out vending machines or removing cigarettes from behind the counter, I'm willing to do that."

She added: "Children who smoke are putting their lives at risk and are more likely to die of cancer than people who start smoking later."

Measures that make it easier to sell nicotine replacement gums and patches are also being considered.

A public consultation is due to begin in May and new legislation could be introduced in the autumn.

The proposal follows this year's Budget, in which Chancellor Alistair Darling increased the duty on tobacco, adding 11p to the price of a packet of 20 cigarettes and 4p to the price of five cigars.

He also said the Government was continuing the 5 per cent reduced rate of VAT on smoking cessation products beyond June 30.

A ban on smoking in public places came into force last July. Bans were previously introduced in Scotland in 2006 and in Wales and Northern Ireland in 2007.

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