Tobacco Control Strategy

A supplementary question put forward to the Hon. G.E. GAGO regarding the Tobacco Control Strategy.

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK: I have a supplementary question. On what evidence is the minister relying in relation to the contribution loyalty schemes make to the smoking problem in this state?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO: Anything that portrays smoking in a positive light is the wrong message to be sending out into the community. This government believes that anything that rewards a person for smoking is the wrong message. We do not shy away from these tough measures, and we know they are working, because in this state we have reduced—

Members interjecting:

The Hon. G.E. GAGO: They don’t like to hear this.

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order! I am having trouble hearing the minister’s lecture.

The Hon. G.E. GAGO: I just want to make sure that everyone in this chamber hears that our strategies are working. In fact, the smoking rate amongst our young people has declined. So, I guess the proof is in the pudding.