§ Mrs. BallardTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what action the Government is taking to reduce the number of cigarette smokers; and if he will make a statement on his Department's targets in this area. [34330]
§ Ms JowellOur strategy to reduce smoking will be set out in the Tobacco Control White Paper to be published later this year.
On 4 December 1997 the European Union Health Council reached a common position on a European Union wide ban on tobacco advertising and promotion.
In 1997/98, the Government are funding a £1 million anti-smoking promotion campaign called "Respect", and the Health Education Authority's adult smoking education campaign costing £5.5 million. As part of the HEA 589W campaign, £700,000 is being given to Quit to operate the Quitline—telephone helpline—which offers smoking cessation advice, counselling and support.
In addition, a wide range of health professionals, notably general practitioners, routinely offer cessation advice and support.
§ Mr. Ieuan Wyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what further measures he proposes to reduce smoking in public places. [34489]
§ Ms JowellWe are considering what measures might be included in the Tobacco Control White Paper, to be published later this year, to reduce smoking in public places.
The White Paper will take into account the recently published conclusions of the Scientific Committee on Tobacco and Health on the scientific evidence on the health effects of exposure to environmental tobacco smoke.