BATA (British American Tobacco Australia) is being charged of targeting more number of vulnerable teenagers by the federal government, says a new report.

As per the reports, it has been unfolded that the introduction of a new brand namely Just Smokes at cheaper prices by the group has resulted in increased number of smokers. While the average price of cigarettes is $16, the group is selling the new pack of 25 cigarettes at a mere cost of $11.50.

Tanya Plibersek, Health Minister, said in the context that the move made by BATA is highly unacceptable as it is fulfilling the needs of teenagers. Young adults are found to be price sensitive and their incidence of smoking is increasing as a result of low prices.

However, the group disagreed with all the comments and affirmed that it was propelled to introduce a fall in prices. It said that the same is being done as a consequence of increase of 25% in tobacco excise by the government in 2010.

But, health minister boldly opposes the same and says, "We'll keep looking at what we need to do to continue to reduce the rates of people smoking in Australia".