Gov't to intensify implementation of tobacco control legislation

The Health Minister has warned that the Government will be intensifying the implementation of  tobacco control legislation.

“It will include mandatory prohibition on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship, including a ban on point of sale tobacco displays, the prohibition of sale of all forms of tobacco products to and by minors, and the regulation of price and tax measures,” Dr Christopher Tufton told the House of Representatives yesterday.

Tufton, who was contributing to the Sectoral Debate, also lauded Dr Fenton Ferguson for championing anti-tobacco usage during his time as health minister.

Dr Tufton: “Indeed, that will be your legacy, member and it is only right that we take the baton and take it forward, not just because of international obligations, but because it is the right thing to do, Mr Speaker.”

He added that this move by the Government is guided by the need to reduce non-communicable diseases and a public education campaign will be rolled out to increase awareness of the legislation.

He said there will be keen focus on the identification of illegal tobacco products and areas where the smoking and selling of tobacco products should be prohibited.

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