'Significant milestone' reached in tobacco control

Thursday 14 November 2019

Guernsey has joined a worldwide public health treaty which aims to end death and disease caused by tobacco by introducing further regulation and education.

The World Health Organisation's Framework Convention for Tobacco Control was set up in 2005 in response to the globalisation of the tobacco-related disease epidemic, and was extended to Guernsey and Jersey this week.

Around 180 countries and states have signed the convention in an attempt to tackle some causes of the epidemic, including complex factors with cross-border effects like tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship beyond national borders, and illicit trade in tobacco products.

It is said to be based on scientific evidence and best practice.

Pictured: HSC President Deputy Heidi Soulsby.

"The control of tobacco use is essential for countries worldwide," said Health and Social Care President, Deputy Heidi Soulsby. "Tobacco can have devastating health consequences but, importantly, also impacts on a country's economy through increased healthcare costs and decreased productivity."

Before the treaty could be extended, both Guernsey and Jersey had to demonstrate that they complied with three articles relating to protection from exposure to tobacco smoke, tobacco product packaging and bans on tobacco advertising. The islands will continue to report back on this and will work with international partners to consider new approaches to reducing tobacco-related harm.

"This treat emphasises Guernsey's commitment to implement evidence-based measures to reduce tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke," Deputy Soulsby continued. "This will protect present and future generations from the negative health, social, environmental and economic consequences of tobacco use."