Roxon Welcomes NSW Government’s Support of Plain Packaging of Tobacco Products
Minister for Health and Ageing Nicola Roxon has welcomed the NSW Government’s support of the Australian Government's plain packaging legislation
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The Hon Nicola Roxon MP
Minister for Health and Ageing
9 May 2011
Minister for Health and Ageing Nicola Roxon today welcomed the NSW Government’s support of the Commonwealth’s plain packaging legislation and called on the Federal leader of the Opposition to follow his State counterpart’s lead.
“I would like to congratulate the NSW Government for their support of the plain packaging of tobacco products – they have acted responsibly and in the best interests of the people of NSW,” said Ms Roxon.
“Their actions are in stark contrast to the inaction of the Leader of the Opposition, Tony Abbott, who has refused to support the measure and still accepts donations from Big Tobacco.
“As a former health minister, Mr Abbott knows that tobacco kills 15,000 Australians each year – a tragic number that brings suffering to families all over Australia.
“Mr Abbott is becoming increasingly isolated - former Coalition leader, Dr Brendan Nelson, said recently,
“Part of the packaging and marketing of the tobacco industry is to see that the packaging reinforces images of identity and social aspiration that young people so long for in those formative years.”
“Mr Abbott should stop playing politics and get with the program,” she said.
The Gillard Government’s legislation is a world first and will restrict tobacco industry logos, brand imagery, colours and promotional text appearing on packs.
The only thing to distinguish one brand from another will be the brand and product name in a standard colour, standard position and standard font size and style.
In addition, health warnings will be updated and increased from 30 per cent to 75 per cent of the front of the pack, as well as 90 per cent of the back.
Following a period of public consultation, the Tobacco Plain Packaging Bill 2011 will be introduced during the winter sitting.
For all media inquiries, please contact the Minister's Office on 02 6277 7220
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