Tobacco will no longer be displayed in shops under new legislation being implemented by the Government.

The regulations will come into force for large stores on April 6 2012 and on April 6 2015 for all other shops.

Only temporary displays in "certain limited circumstances" will be allowed, with the rules phased in to minimise the impact on businesses, according to a statement from the Department of Health.

The Government is keeping an "open mind" on plain packaging for cigarettes and other tobacco products, and is planning a consultation on different options before the end of this year.