Tobacco Ad Ban Must Be EU Wide says Euro-MP

10.01.00am BST (GMT +0100) Sun 31st Jul 2005

As an EU ban on tobacco advertising comes in to force tomorrow, it has been revealed that 9 of the 25 member states have not adopted the Directive in to their national law.

The directive was passed in 2003 yet Germany, Spain, Luxembourg, Sweden, the Czech republic, Greece, Slovenia, Cyprus and Hungary still have not complied with the legislation despite being given two years to do so.

West Midlands Euro-MP Liz Lynne said that the ban was an important step in reducing smoking amongst young people in particular.

"I believe this ban is a significant milestone in the fight for improving public health. Over 650,000 people die each year in the EU from smoking related illnesses and research has proven that a ban on tobacco advertising reduces smoking rates by 7%.

"We have to make sure that all EU countries are on a level playing field. The UK banned advertising two years ago before this directive was passed and there can be no excuse for member states who are not complying with this law.

"It is important that the Commission monitor the progress in the 9 non compliant countries and keeps up the pressure for them to act as soon as possible."

The EU ban covers all print, radio and internet advertising as well as sponsorship of events such as grand prix. Tobacco companies will still be allowed to advertise in Cinemas however, as will coverage of events outside the EU. Tobacco advertising on TV is already illegal.

Due to the forthcoming General Election in Germany, it is now unlikely they will introduce a ban until early next year at the latest.

ENDS