The European Respiratory Society has welcomed today’s (4 May, 2016) ruling from the European Court of Justice that the European Union’s (EU) Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) and plain packaging are legal.
The ruling marks a further key success for health advocates aiming to tackle the burden of smoking-related harms. It is estimated that approximately 700,000 EU citizens die prematurely every year because of tobacco consumption.
Reacting to the news, ERS President Professor Jørgen Vestbo said: “Today is another important milestone in our fight against tobacco use in Europe. ERS welcomes the decision by the European Court of Justice and urges all Member States to follow the recommendations of the Directive and introduce plain packaging legislation. Evidence from Australia shows that plain packaging is effective in reducing the appeal of tobacco products, especially among young people. It should be introduced as part of a set of measures including smoke-free legislation and smoking cessation support services. Ireland, the UK and France have already adopted measures to protect children from tobacco and all European countries should follow this example".
To celebrate this great success, ERS and the European Network for Smoking and Tobacco Prevention (ENSP) are hosting an event on World No Tobacco Day (31 May, 2016) at the European Parliament. The event aims to support the World Health Organization’s (WHO) call to action on plain packaging and highlight the evidence behind plain packaging. Hosted by MEP Gilles Pargneaux and MEP Brian Hayes, the event will also congratulate Member States which have implemented the measure and encourage the remaining countries to follow suit.
Notes to editors
The ERS/ENSP event is open to policymakers, healthcare professionals and other organisations working against tobacco and cigarette use in Europe. To find out more about the event and to register for free, please visit the website.