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WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control

05 March 2020

Lead MP

Bob Blackman

Debate Type

Adjournment Debate

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Other Contributors: 1

At a Glance

Bob Blackman raised concerns about who framework convention on tobacco control in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Opened the debate
The UK has seen a decline in smoking rates, but pregnant women and those on low incomes continue to struggle with quitting. The MP highlights the tobacco industry's attempts to undermine public health policies by offering £1 billion over ten years for relaxed advertising restrictions on heated tobacco products, which goes against WHO’s framework convention obligations. Funding is needed for public education campaigns and local enforcement of age-of-sale regulations to further reduce youth smoking rates. The prevention Green Paper acknowledged the challenge of reaching a smoke-free 2030 target; however, Cancer Research UK projections suggest it will not be achieved until 2037 unless additional measures are taken.

Government Response

Government Response
The Minister reaffirms the UK's commitment to the WHO framework convention on tobacco control (FCTC) and its article 5.3 obligations, emphasising no partnership with the tobacco industry is allowed. She acknowledges the work of local communities in tackling smoking habits, especially among pregnant women, highlighting a project at Tameside Hospital as an example. The Minister pledges to continue working towards being smoke-free by 2030 and commits to speaking with HM Treasury about financial levers that could support this aim. However, she does not provide a specific timeline for the publication of the Government’s response to the prevention Green Paper consultation.
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