South Africa: New Anti-smoking Laws to be Introduced

Source from:  Eyewitness News (za)  01/09/2013

South Africa plans to increase ban on smoking in public places and certain outdoor places.

Smokers will find it more difficult to get their daily fix with new tobacco regulations that will not allow cigarettes to be displayed in shops.
 
ANC delegates voted for stricter anti-smoking laws during the party's elective conference in Mangaung in December.
 
Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi says he will this week sign a protocol in Geneva that will force the South African government to ensure there are no cigarettes on display in shops.
 
"Cigarettes must not be displayed in stores. They must be hidden somewhere."
 
Motsoaledi said a national law will also be passed this year to ban alcohol advertising.
 
The minister said he will target the advertising on alcohol and tobacco to make it less attractive for users.
 
He said companies spent outrageous amounts on advertising during 2012.
 
"Three alcohol companies are spending R1 billion per annum just on advertising."
 
He said if the abuse of alcohol and tobacco is not dealt with, there will be an increase in lifestyle diseases, which will make the planned National Health Insurance (NHI) too expensive. Enditem