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“
The
Preventative Health Taskforce report released today by Health Minister
Nicola Roxon offers the best way forward for health reform, says
Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) ASH
has called for implementation of the report’s recommendations
without delay – including a substantial increase in tobacco tax. Says
ASH Chief Executive Anne Jones: “ “A
tobacco tax increase offers the Rudd Government an ideal opportunity
to raise funds for health reform in a way that is popular with the
community, and will itself help drive smoking rates down – to the
benefit of all Australians, particularly those in greatest need. “Tobacco
is still our leading cause of preventable death and disease –
killing over 15,000 people a year and draining our economy of more
than $31b a year in health and social costs. “Investing
in the fight against tobacco is the single most cost-effective health
measure the government can take. “We
fully support the recommendations of the Taskforce towards extending
public awareness media campaigns and ending all forms of tobacco
advertising, promotion and sponsorship. “After
such a long process of consultation, we urge that all these
recommendations be implemented without delay. “We
congratulate the Rudd Government and the Health Minister for their
vision – the first step is to fund this health revolution with an
urgently-needed increase in tobacco tax.” See Taskforce report: tobacco chapter
Comment: Anne Jones, CEO, ASH Australia ph. (02) 9334-1876; m. 0417-227-879 Media
info: Stafford
Sanders, ASH Australia
ph. (02) 9334-1823; m.
0412-070-194
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Page last updated 1/9/09 |
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