9. ANN HARTLEY (Labour) Link to this
to the Associate Minister of Health
What support has he seen for the Government’s anti-smoking initiatives?
Hon DAMIEN O'CONNOR (Associate Minister of Health) Link to this
Two weeks ago I hosted a breakfast at Parliament that featured two international speakers talking on the subject of misleading terms on tobacco products. It was good to see support from members across the House, including National’s associate health spokesperson Jonathan Coleman.
Hon DAMIEN O'CONNOR Link to this
I have seen many reports on the harmful effects of exposure to second-hand smoke, and they range from lung cancer to emphysema, heart attacks, and possible concussion. It has also been disturbing to read in a recent publication that British American Tobacco, a company responsible for many of the diseases and conditions mentioned, has close links to the National Party.
Tariana TuriaIs the Minister aware of the statement from the Cancer Society spokesperson Belinda Hughes that it is hypocritical of the Government to support international agreements on the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control while lining its pockets with tobacco industry profits; if so, when will he take action to challenge Crown financial institutions to withdraw any investment in tobacco companies?
Hon DAMIEN O'CONNOR Link to this
I am aware of the contentious issue of Governments taking tax or duty from tobacco. It is one of the dilemmas that we continue to work through. However, our focus is on reducing the harm from tobacco use, for all groups across this country.
Metiria TureiWhat advice has the Minister received regarding links between the National Party and British American Tobacco, and has he had any advice on the impact that such links might have on the capacity of this Parliament to regulate tobacco in the best interests of our own people?
Hon DAMIEN O'CONNOR Link to this
I am advised that, according to a recent publication, on 30 June Don Brash and David Carter met with seven of the top managers of British American Tobacco. This was at a time when the company was working on plans to introduce new, candy-flavoured and alcohol-flavoured cigarettes—a move criticised by the Public Health Association as trying to get children hooked on smoking. I would also like to acknowledge the fact that due to support from parties such as the Greens, this Parliament has been able to make some significant progress on regulating tobacco control in this country. Of course, those steps have all been continually opposed by the National Party.