France will press ahead with another tax hike on cigarettes next year, a government spokesman said yesterday, despite allegations a recent increase had led to more thefts at tobacco shops.

　　Jean-Francois Cope reiterated the government's plan to raise cigarette taxes by 20 percent next year, and vowed a "very ambitious plan" to provide better security for tobacconists.

　　"We're very responsive on matters of security, and measures will be taken - we're not waiting," Cope said on Europe-1 radio. Interior Minister Nicolas Sarkozy is expected to unveil the plan on Thursday.

　　Cope said the government would also crack down on contraband cigarette traffic and foster a debate about the future of the industry of tobacco-vending in France.

　　Cigarette taxes rose last month for the second time this year, increasing the average price per pack to 4.60 euros (US.40) from 3.90 euros (US.60).

　　The taxes are part of an anti-smoking campaign that has toughened laws against underage smoking and limits smoking in public places. Another swingeing 20-percent rise for January is planned.

　　Tobacco vendors in French border areas are hardest hit, with customers flocking to nearby Spain, Italy, Germany and other nearby countries, where cigarettes are cheaper.

　　The next tax hike, set to take effect in January, "will be maintained because it's part of our new fight against cancer," Cope said. "It's an essential mission."

　　Citing information from an unidentified source at the national police, French daily Le Figaro reported yesterday that there have been 150 holdups in urban areas in France so far this year - up from only 70 at the start of September.

　　The report was among several in recent days that link higher prices to a rash of thefts at beleagured tobacco shops all over the country.