New Zealand has repealed what would have been a world-first law banning tobacco sales for future generations, the government said, even while researchers and campaigners warned that people could die as a result.
Reuters reports that the toughest anti-tobacco rules in the world would have taken effect from July, banning sales to those born after 1 January 2009, cutting nicotine content in smoked tobacco products, and reducing the number of tobacco retailers by more than 90%.
The new coalition government elected in October confirmed the repeal was to happen this week as a matter of urgency, enabling it to scrap the law without seeking public comment, in line with previously announced plans.
Associate Health Minister Casey Costello said the coalition government was committed to reducing smoking, but was taking a different regulatory approach to discourage the habit and reduce the harm it caused.
“I will soon be taking a package of measures to cabinet to increase the tools available to help people quit smoking,” Costello said, adding that regulations on vaping would also be tightened to deter young people.
Reuters article – New Zealand set to scrap world-first tobacco ban (Open access)
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