QLD ANTI-SMOKING CUTS ARE A WARNING FOR TASMANIA

The Tasmanian Greens today called on the Tasmanian Liberals to cut their ties with big tobacco and denounce the Newman Government over its cuts to anti-smoking programs for Aboriginal communities.

Greens Health spokesperson Paul O’Halloran MP said the cuts were an example of what tobacco companies donating to the Liberal Party could expect from a Liberal government.
“This is clear cut example of the detrimental effect that big tobacco political donations have on public health policy,” Mr O’Halloran said.

“The Greens call on the Tasmanian Liberals to condemn the Queensland Government’s cuts, and to send a clear message of support for Tasmania’s anti-smoking campaigns, starting with abandoning their addiction to tobacco donations.”

“Tasmania has some of the worst smoking rates in the country, including the highest rates of smoking during teen pregnancy, so what we really need in this state are stronger anti-smoking measures.”

“As the only state party still accepting tobacco company political donations, the Liberals can start to rebuild some of their credibility by severing their ties with big tobacco permanently and supporting a healthier community.”

“The problem is that loopholes in current disclosure laws mean voters don’t know the real amount that Tasmanian Liberals are receiving from big tobacco.”

“The actual figure could be far higher than what gets reported, because political parties currently are not required to provide a complete or up-to-date picture of the donations they receive.”
Paul O’Halloran MP Greens Health Spokesperson Monday, 1 April 2013