UK: Tobacco Control Act Passes

Source from:  The Royal Gazette 12/17/2015

The Tobacco Control Act 2015 has passed today, aimed at improving Bermuda's overall health and preventing children from taking up smoking.

The Act had been the subject of fierce debate between the One Bermuda Alliance and the Progressive Labour Party, with the latter previously rejecting its measures as "punitive and draconian" and prompting health minister Jeanne Atherden to rise and report in the House of Assembly two weeks ago.

However, after a series of amendments by Ms Atherden, the subject returned to the House today.

As of July 31 next year, new measures will include forbidding retailers from displaying tobacco products in their shop, or placing them within three metres of children's items such as toys or sweets.

Two proposed moves were scrapped, however, after PLP objections: shops will still be allowed to sell single cigarettes, while sports and recreational facilities will still be permitted to sell tobacco on their premises. Enditem