Tobacco industry discounting is linked to higher cigarette consumption the following year, finds an analysis of the impact of pricing differentials in 23 European countries and published online in the journal Tobacco Control.

The availability of cut price cigarettes is likely undermining the impact of tax levies and therefore progress on bringing down smoking prevalence and the ill health with which it is associated, say the researchers, who go on to suggest that a rethink on tobacco taxes may now be warranted.