Tobacco.org

LETTER: Tackling the real smoking issue  

The real problem with smoking in general is not casual smoking, e.g. after-dinner or at outdoor functions. It is smoking as an addiction and being exposed repeatedly to second-hand smoke in confined places. The proposed draconian measures are out of proportion. Property owners should have the legal power to prohibit all smoking on their premises, whether residential or otherwise. Where it is permitted it must be for regular tobacco not narcotics; and they must have a duty (when they opt for providing for smokers) to set up open-air venues, e.g. roof-top, or separated ventilation systems in designated areas. Obviously, in some locations, smoking can never be permitted by anyone e.g. at gas stations and other danger points. One way to begin to tackle the problem of addictions is to minimise additives to tobacco and the sheathing or remove the additives altogether. More effort would go into making the tobacco flavourable and the sheath complementary; and more expensive tobacco would have to be used. . . .

Tobacco hoarding in/by the First World should be penalised. Poorer countries could then farm tobacco fairly and even produce and market their own brands/flavours. Finally, advertising good tobacco might be permissible, shown in an intelligent context having nothing to do with curvy torsos swaying or posing, fast vehicles, flashy fleshy feting, etc.

Jump to full article »