Plain Packaging

Plain packaging on tobacco products is the latest strategy aimed at reducing smoking. Campaigners had hoped the UK would follow Australia’s example. But they have been disappointed as the UK government postpones the plans until “more evidence” is available. We hear from Linda Bauld, professor of public policy at the University of Stirling, about why she thinks the current evidence is convincing enough. Also this week, one of the most difficult consultations a doctor can have doesn’t involve a complex diagnosis, but rather a statement of intent: suicide. Richard Morriss, professor of psychiatry and community mental health at the University of Nottingham, explains how to have that conversation.