Labour supports UK moves on tobacco

13 October 2009
Media Statement

Labour supports UK moves on tobacco

Labour Associate Health Spokesperson Iain Lees-Galloway says the decision by the UK Parliament to support a ban on tobacco displays is embarrassing for the New Zealand Government that can't even decide whether or not it is in favour of similar action here.

"I am heartened that the UK House of Commons today voted to send legislation banning tobacco displays to the House of Lords. Removal of point-of-sale tobacco advertising is seen as the next step in the fight to prevent young people from taking up the smoking habit, a habit that kills 5000 New Zealanders every year and is the leading cause of preventable death in our country," said Iain Lees-Galloway.

"Sadly, although the Minister responsible for tobacco control, Tariana Turia, is in favour of a ban, the National Party is happier sitting on the sidelines lest they upset anyone in the tobacco industry.

"In response to my questions in the house, Tony Ryall was unable to give the Government's position on tobacco displays, instead offering Mrs Turia's personal opinion on the matter. He is avoiding the issue and refuses to acknowledge the growing body of evidence that supports a ban on Tobacco Displays.

"As more and more countries introduce bans on Tobacco Displays, New Zealand falls further and further behind in preventative healthcare.

"The only people opposed to a ban are the tobacco companies and associations of which the tobacco companies are members. The only people Tony Ryall is appeasing is the tobacco companies.

"It is time for our brave little country to act. The nations we like to compare ourselves to, are rapidly removing the last bastion of tobacco advertising. How long before we are the only one left beholden to Big Tobacco?"

ENDS