- cross-posted to:
- publichealth
- cross-posted to:
- publichealth
Reversal of smoking ban criticised as ‘shameful’ for lacking evidence
New Zealand is repealing the world’s first smoking ban passed under former prime minister Jacinda Arden’s government to pave the way for a smoke-free generation amid backlash from researchers and campaigners over its risk to Indigenous people.
The new coalition government led by prime minister Christopher Luxon confirmed the repeal will happen on Tuesday, delivering on one of the actions of his coalition’s ambitious 100-day plan.
The government repeal will be put before parliament as a matter of urgency, enabling it to scrap the law without seeking public comment, in line with previously announced plans.
Smoking makes lots of money for the tobacco companies and for governments. Hence not wanting to ban it.
It’s a weird drug of choice; -Super addictive. -Doesn’t really do anything except briefly offset addiction withdrawl symptoms. -Very expensive. -Makes people smell really awful.
And it’s potentially very harmful to the health of yourself and those around you.
When your product kills half your customers, that just makes it more important to keep finding new customers!
Oh that’s a bonus feature!