Intaly to ban smoking in cars with kids

(ANSA) - Rome, October 13 - The cabinet on Monday approved introducing a ban on smoking in cars in the presence of children or pregnant women as part of provisions to bring Italy in line with a European directive on tobacco. Cigarette packets will also carry strong images and text aimed at warning people of the dangers of smoking. Other measures to be introduced include a ban on smoking in the vicinity of paediatric hospitals and clinics and of gynaecology, paediatric, obstetric and neonatal wards, and tougher penalties for people caught selling or serving tobacco, electronic cigarettes or tobacco and nicotine next-generation products to minors. The provisions should become law by Christmas.