Tobacco Review Tells True Story

A review issued by Government advisors yesterday is attempting to set the record straight by examining the direct effect of tobacco advertising on the number of smokers in this country. The results speak for themselves, claiming that 7.5% of smoking could be prevented if the advertisements were banned.

Government argument has always backed the notion that refusing to show cigarette advertising would not have any direct effect on smokers but yesterday’s report could significantly change that opinion. Studies in other countries show that the ban has reduced tobacco consumption by as much as 16%. Health secretary, Virginia Bottomley is still opposing the ban claiming; “It is my view that introducing a statuatory ban on a product which is legal and for sale is a very serious step to take for the country. It is a serious inhibition on commercial freedom of speech”.

Members of the Health Education Authority are pushing for the Government to go ahead with banning tobacco advertising instead of delaying matters by waiting for an EC directive on the matter.