THE possible introduction of plain packaging for cigarettes could lead to a big drop in smoking in Cornwall. Following the end of the Government's consultation on introducing standardised packaging for tobacco products, Public Health England has highlighted evidence from Australia that points to what could be achieved through the proposed new approach. The Australians have seen a 15 per cent decline in the rate of smoking between 2010 and 2013, with a 3.4 per cent fall in tobacco sales by volume in the first year following the introduction of plain packaging. If that fall in sales were to be mirrored in Cornwall, Public Health England predicts that £5,566,976 less would be spent on cigarettes. The organisation also says there would be a potential knock-on benefit for businesses in the county, as people would have more money to spend on other goods. Meanwhile, estimates by Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) suggest Cornwall Council spends £8.2m each year on adult social care as a result of problems caused by smoking. So money could be saved in that sector. And the introduction of standardised packs would also be likely to decrease the number of children starting to smoke. Attractive packaging is a reason why young people are tempted to try smoking, which can lead to a lifetime addiction. Stuart Bourne, Cornwall's acting director of public health, said: 'It is widely known that smoking costs lives – in fact, one in every two smokers will lose their life to this lethal habit. 'Tobacco remains the only consumer product which kills when used as intended. 'The figures for lives lost are startling and, hopefully, in addition to the clear health risks, this idea will both encourage existing smokers to quit and prevent new people starting to smoke.' Jim McKenna, Cornwall Council cabinet member for health and adult care, said: 'We are pleased that the possibility of standardised tobacco packaging is a step closer. 'Anything which helps people in Cornwall to think again about the risks and makes smoking less attractive will help them to be better off – not just with their health, but financially too.'