House debates Private Members' Business

Tobacco Plain Packaging

Thursday, 3 November 2011 House of Representatives

Debate resumed on the motion:

That this House:

(1) notes the devastating impact of tobacco products on the lives of Australians, with smoking causing numerous life threatening diseases including cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, stomach cancer, pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, cervical cancer, leukaemia and oral cancers, and that the majority of smokers regret the decision to ever start;

(2) acknowledges that there is significant evidence to suggest that creative design, branding and promotion of tobacco through its packaging:

(a) reduces the impact of graphic health warnings;

(b) increases the attractiveness and appeal of tobacco products for adolescents; and

(c) misleads consumers to believe that some tobacco products are less harmful than others;

(3) recognises that this Government is already implementing a suite of reforms aimed at reducing smoking and its harmful effects; and

(4) supports the significant measures proposed by this Government including the measure to mandate plain packaging of tobacco products from 1 July 2012.

Question agreed to.

kristopher kubique: I think our government are falling behind the times further and further in a rut. This new proposed legislation of plain packaging is not only absurd , but also ludicrous to everyday tobacco consumers and retailers. By introducing plain packaging, will only simplify the counterfeiting of cigarettes by the black market,which will have higher detrimental repercussions on smokers'health.These would be more than inferior and higher risk to a smoker's health. Also the AMA and all other anti-smoking lobbyists, are to stop the lies and conspiracies which burdens and vilifies smokers. (Eg The QUIT campaign showing unreal footages of a smokers' lung with a liquid tar content as shown on tv.NOT TRUE)Also facts and figures made about... Continue reading