From EMASH Newsletter N° 96

Austria

Bad news in anti-tobacco action: the new government practically stopped all effective measures against the tobacco epidemic. No more tax (i.e.price) increase for tobacco; hospitality industry no more smoke free; continuing access of adolescents to public places without smoking ban; tobacco shops may carry also attractions for children; unrestricted tobacco advertising at and around points of sale including vending machines. In summary a full victory of the tobacco industry! Back to square one. It is suggested to bring this to the attention of WHO before Austria takes the lead on the European group of the next CoP negotiations of FCTC in Geneva.