TOKYO- The idea of banning store displays of cigarettes and sales through cigarette vending machines has gained broad-based public support in Japan, a National Cancer Center survey report showed Wednesday.

Asked about steps to keep tobacco products away from the general public, 82 percent of the adult respondents said that they fully or somewhat support a ban on vending machines.

Similar response was given by 72 percent to the idea of prohibiting store displays, while 68 percent were positive about banning sales in places children visit, such as areas near nurseries, schools and train stations.

The Internet survey was taken during the four days to May 12. Valid responses came from 2,000 adults, including 1,000 smokers, and from 400 minors aged 16 to 19.

The World Health Organization's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control calls for banning store displays and vending machines for tobacco products, as these encourage impulse buying and deliver the wrong message that tobacco use is socially acceptable.

Some countries have introduced such bans.

When asked where they recently saw tobacco products and smokers, over 70 percent of the adult respondents cited smoking rooms and designated outdoor smoking areas, while 61 percent witnessed smoking while walking. (Jiji Press)