HC Deb 14 February 1966 vol 724 cc899-900
2. Mr. Francis Noel-Baker

asked the Minister of Health if he will now take steps to extend the prohibition of advertisements for cigarettes to the Press, poster-hoardings and other advertising media, in view of the dangers to health, including lung cancer, of cigarette smoking, and in view of the intention of many advertisements to extend the habit, particularly among young people.

Mr. K. Robinson

I have nothing to add at present to the reply I gave on 29th November to my hon. Friend the Member for Renfrew, West (Mr. Buchan).

Mr. Noel-Baker

Would my right hon. Friend say what significance we should attach to the emphasis he put on the words "at present"? Is he not aware that it is quite illogical to ban cigarette advertising from one medium but to allow it on the others? If it is dangerous, it is dangerous, and we should take steps to deal with it on all media. Has he had any consultations with the Press Council—

Mr. Speaker

Order. Hon. Members must put questions briefly.

Mr. Robinson

I am not sure whether my views of logic are exactly those of my hon. Friend, but I would inform him that we have under review a study of matters connected with smoking and health, including advertising in media other than television. These are complex issues on which I am not in a position to make a statement.

Mr. Wood

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when he is likely to be able to make a statement on this?

Mr. Robinson

I would not like to guess at that.