[Intl-tobacco] EU Sues Germany, Luxembourg Over Tobacco Ads

[robert weissman]

EU Sues Germany, Luxembourg Over Tobacco Ads
Dow Jones
February 1, 2006

BRUSSELS - The European Commission Wednesday sued Germany and Luxembourg
over the failure by both countries to adopt restrictions on tobacco
advertisements and sponsorships.

The Commission first warned both countries in October. The present legal
action gives them two months to comply or face a full case at the European
Court of Justice. The Court could then impose fines.

Under an EU law passed in 2003, all tobacco advertising in print, on the
radio or via the Internet is forbidden. The law also prohibits tobacco
sponsorships of cross-border events.

Both Germany and Luxembourg haven't incorporated the ban into their national
law.

"The Commission must ensure that EU law is upheld," said European Health and
Consumer Protection Commissioner Markos Kyprianou. "I am determined to
enforce this piece of legislation, which is essential in the fight against
smoking.

"I am sure that all governments realize that glamorizing smoking through
fancy advertising can have devastating effects, in particular on young
people."

-By William Echikson, Dow Jones Newswires; +32-2-741-1482; william.echikson@
dowjones.com