Harm reduction a positive step

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24 March 2005
CP014/05

The Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Christopher Pyne, today noted the contribution of David Davis, Senior Vice President of Philip Morris International, at the National Press Club to the debate about cigarettes and health.

"The Australian Government welcomes the opportunity for collaboration between government and industry to help achieve the objectives of the National Tobacco Strategy," Mr Pyne said.

"The fourth objective of the National Tobacco Strategy 2004-2009 states that, where possible, we should be trying to reduce harm caused by use and dependence on tobacco and nicotine.

"It is encouraging to see that Philip Morris is responding to this objective and recognising it has an obligation to its consumers.

"The government welcomes scientific exploration into the creation of a product that might minimise the harmful effects of tobacco smoke, but our priorities are still to prevent the uptake of smoking and to encourage current smokers to quit," he said.

Media contact: Adam Howard, Office of Christopher Pyne, 0400 414 833