News Release

1995-89
December 19, 1995

Tobacco manufacturers' voluntary code inadequate, says Health Minister

OTTAWA - Health Minister Diane Marleau said today that the Voluntary Packaging and Advertising Code of the Canadian Tobacco Manufacturers' Council falls short of the comprehensive measures required to reduce tobacco use in Canada.

"A voluntary code is better than no code at all. But, let's remember, the objective of the companies is to sell tobacco products," the Minister stated. "My objective is to protect the health of Canadians from the hazards of tobacco use. We will examine the Code's requirements carefully, but I cannot imagine how a voluntary approach could have the same effect as the force of law," she added.

The federal government last week released Tobacco Control: A Blueprint to Protect the Health of Canadians, which recommended a legislative framework, including a ban on tobacco product advertising. The Blueprint also made the case for regulated restrictions on promotion, sponsorship, access, point of sale activities, and packaging and labelling, and recommended the establishment of powers to regulate tobacco product constituents and smoke emissions.

Madame Marleau emphasized that legislation is required because of the unique nature of tobacco products. "Tobacco products are highly addictive and they are lethal. We cannot permit the manufacture, marketing and sale of a product that kills more than 40,000 Canadians every year to go unregulated," the Minister said.

For information:
Sylvie Patry
Health Canada
(613) 957-2988

Gayle Morris
Special Assistant - Communications
Minister's Office
(613) 957-0200