Hon Dr AYESHA VERRALL: Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances on earth. So having cigarettes to buy in just about every supermarket, petrol station, and convenience store makes it even harder for people trying to quit. Currently, it's estimated there are up to 8,000 retailers selling cigarettes around the country. The smoke-free action plan will see that number reduced to around 500 outlets by 2024. This will give businesses time to plan for their transition away from tobacco. But, ultimately, it means that people who have decided to quit won't be passing half a dozen chances to buy a packet of cigarettes every time they walk to their local shops.