[Intl-tobacco] Kenya: BAT Asks for Consult on Smokefree Rules

[robert weissman]

http://www.eastandard.net/hm_news/news.php?articleid=1143952738

The Standard
May 20, 2006

Finally BAT reacts to public smoking ban
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*By Tom Mogusu*

The British American Tobacco wants the Government to consult the
industry before enacting the proposed Tobacco Bill.

The company says that the decision by Health minister, Charity Ngilu, to
implement new regulations for the sector was untenable because of the
time frame given and lack of consultations between the Government and
industry stakeholders.

The new regulations seek to ban public smoking and made it mandatory for
tobacco companies to replace existing warning signs with new messages
that are written in bold and prominently displayed.

It also proposes a Sh50,000 fine or a jail term of six months for
smoking in public. Ngilu said that the cost of implementing the changes
should to be shouldered by the tobacco industry.

However, Keli Kiilu, the Corporate and Regulatory Affairs director at
BAT described the new regulations as uncalled for and lacked input of
the industry.

"Whereas the regulation should be enacted soonest, the time frame given
does not take into account the processes required by manufacturers,
owners of public entertainment

places and other buildings to make provisions to accommodate the changes
in law."

He said to ensure full compliance on the changes in packaging, adequate
lead-time is required to give manufacturers sufficient time to clear
current stocks and realign their equipment to produce new packs.

"It is the view of the tobacco industry that regulation should be
practical, workable and enforceable, while taking into account the
socio-economic realities inherent in Kenya," he said.

"Laws made in other countries may not be wholly applicable in Kenya but
should be made suitable to local conditions."

Kiilu said the new rules are in conflict with the proposed Tobacco
Control Bill 2006.

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