Vol. 504 No. 2
208 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children if she is satisfied with the way in which light brands of tobacco products are marketed by the tobacco industry in view of the recent research emanating from the Health Education Authority in the United Kingdom concerning the dangers of light cigarettes and the falsely created impression that these cigarettes are safer than conventional brands; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11370/99]
Regulations which control the advertising, sale, promotion and packaging of tobacco products in Ireland require that advertisements for and packets of cigarettes display a health warning. The tar content of the cigarettes must be indicated on the packet. The use of any statement or term which claims or implies that it is less harmful to smoke one brand of tobacco product than another is prohibited from tobacco advertisements and packaging.
Claims by the tobacco industry that consumption of lighter brands of cigarettes reduces the risk of lung cancer for smokers and are less dangerous to health are unfounded. Research carried out internationally in recent years confirms no reduction in the risk to smokers from low tar cigarettes.
A EU level the making of this type of claim about tobacco products and the maximum allowable levels of tar and nicotine in tobacco products are being considered by the Commission with a view to bringing in further measures. Ireland supports this position.
