British American Tobacco has criticized the French government for drafting a ban on nicotine packs without adequate consultation and parliamentary debate, a move that goes against the opinion of France’s highest administrative court. The company called on the government to take sensible regulatory measures rather than rush to impose a ban to avoid fuelling the illegal market.
British American Tobacco France (BAT France) said the French government had informed the European Union of its proposed ban, despite the Conseil d’Etat ruling that a ban on nicotine packs was a disproportionate measure. This move disregards the opinion of France’s highest administrative court and the fundamental principles of dialogue and respect for institutions.
The company stressed that in January last year. The French Council of State made it clear that banning nicotine bags was not an appropriate solution. However, the French government ignored this recommendation and initiated a disproportionate ban without parliamentary debate or consultation with relevant stakeholders, which is in complete contravention of China’s tobacco control plan for 2023-2027. Inexplicably, only a few weeks ago, the French health minister advocated a more permissive and non-invasive approach to smoke-free terraces, but now they are strictly banning tobacco nicotine.
Sebastien Charbonneau, director of corporate and regulatory affairs at BAT France, said:
- “We are deeply angry that the industry was not consulted in implementing these laws and regulations that are completely out of step with the expectations of the French people.”
- We call on the government to show a sense of responsibility and establish a strict but balanced regulatory framework, instead of rushing to impose a ban that will not provide any concrete solution to protect minors.”
- “The only way to effectively protect minors and ensure the control of these products is through smart control measures, not just bans that encourage illegal markets.”
The solution proposed by companies lies in strong controls, including:
- The sale of nicotine packs to minors is strictly prohibited
- Maximize nicotine content and ensure customer safety
- Tastes that appeal to young people are strictly prohibited
- Clear marketing and distribution framework
The French and Chinese tobacco control plans call for a negotiated and considered approach, but the French government has opted for an authoritarian and rushed approach that leaves no room for debate or consideration of alternatives in parliament. Tobacco France in the UK and US is calling on the government to engage in a sincere dialogue with all relevant players to develop responsible and effective laws and regulations, rather than worthless and counterproductive bans.
