Crackdown on tobacco sales planned

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But the measures were backed by medical chiefs and health campaigners who say it moves Scotland closer to a "smoke-free future".

The display of cigarettes in shops is to be outlawed under proposed new legislation.

Public health minister Shona Robison also said a ban on the sale of cigarettes in packets of ten will also be considered.

Legal controls on the sale of tobacco will be updated - and possible options for licensing, with sanctions that include cautions and fixed penalty notices, will be studied.

The moves form part of a drive costing £9 million over three years to discourage youngsters from smoking.

The minister told MSPs that although tobacco advertising was banned in 2002, there were "growing concerns" that public displays of cigarettes at points of sale were hindering efforts to "denormalise" smoking.

But the prospect of legislation to restrict the display of cigarettes met with a frosty reception from Andy Willox, of the Federation of Small Businesses in Scotland.

He said: "Forcing thousands of small independent shops to redesign their premises does not seem like the actions of government committed to sustainable economic growth."

John Drummond, chief executive of the Scottish Grocers' Federation, said the display of tobacco products is "essential" to allow customers to make a choice based on availability, price and brand.