A move towards banning smoking in public places has moved a step nearer – after the Public Health Tobacco Bill cleared its final hurdle in the House of Keys.
Despite a vigorous challenge from East Douglas MHK Brenda Cannell (pictured), there was substantial support for the DHSS at the third reading, with 20 votes in favour and just three against.
Charlotte Quayle reports:
(Text of attached audio)
Mrs Cannell went to great length to demonstrate that, in her opinion, the public questionnaire was designed to obtain the answers the department wanted and the way in which statistics were interpreted was misleading.
However, Health Minister Steve Rodan, was unmoved by any of Mrs Cannell’s last minute objections.
Peter Karran voted against the bill on the grounds members should have received details of the forthcoming regulations.
After the bill is considered by the Legislative Council, there will be a further period of consultation and the Minister has stated whatever form the ban takes, it will not be lawful until 2008.
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