HL Deb 12 March 2001 vol 623 c65WA
The Earl of Northesk

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What representations were received by the Department of Health from the e-Envoy in respect of the Tobacco Advertising and Promotion Bill; and how these were addressed by the department. [HL1109]

Lord Hunt of Kings Heath

The Department of Health has had various discussions about the Tobacco Advertising and Promotion Bill, including with the e-Envoy's office.

If approved by Parliament, the Tobacco Advertising and Promotion Bill will enact a comprehensive ban on tobacco advertising. The Bill is intended to help reduce tobacco consumption and so make inroads into the mortality and ill health caused by tobacco products. The Government are anxious, however, to ensure that this does not create a liability for Internet service providers and others in circumstances where their involvement with the advertisement is such that it would not be appropriate to do so.