Attempts to Ban Menthol and Slim Cigarettes Divide Europeans
07/08/13
The new rule which is discussed by European Union ministers refers to the ban of menthol and slim cigarettes. The rule is directed to the improvement of Europeans health but the result of this rule is the division of the society into supporters and contes
Following by Poland, one of the biggest tobacco producers in Europe, a group of former Communist countries are trying to provide arguments contra this rule hoping to keep in sale at least slim cigarettes which are preferred by many smokers, especially female part of smokers.
The formers of the rule explain the huge popularity of slim cigarettes by the fact that they have a special allure that attracts young women. Menthol cigarettes are smoked mostly by young generation in no dependence of sex and are a perfect variant to start smoking thanks to their pleasant taste.
A row of Polish politicians seem to be worried about the situation with slim and menthol cigarettes. They affirm that they are completely for the healthy lifestyle but the new rule should be relaxed as people are irritated. Ms. Thun said that people are tired by the constant remembering of the smoking harm. They compare it with drinking alcohol and going late to bed emphasizing that these habits are also harmful for human body.
Besides the ban of menthol and slim cigarettes the new rule supposes the special pictures of smoking consequences on cigarette packs which have to cover 75% of the pack. However, the rule should be at first approved by the European Parliament before it comes into effect.
The reason the rule is to be applied in regards to slim and menthol cigarettes is explained by the fact that they look attractive and their taste is more pleasant than the taste of usual cigarettes. Therefore young generation are curious to try slim and menthol cigarettes.
Ms Thus added that to her mind the attitude to smoking issue should not be so strict as the discussion runs about human beings and each of them are aware of their actions. Moreover, she believes that it is almost impossible to influence somehow heavy smokers who have been smoking almost for the whole life. Taking it into account all the efforts should be directed to the younger generation.