On April 11th, Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers strongly criticized the "explosive growth" of vaping among youth and hinted at the possibility of imposing stricter taxes on it soon. At the same time, Australian National Party leader David Littleproud acknowledged the government's "failure" in preventing children from smoking and called for easier access to e-cigarettes in convenience stores.
The Minister of Finance expresses significant concern over the explosive growth of e-cigarettes.
The rise of electronic cigarettes in Australia has created a $5 billion hole in the national budget, prompting the government to consider all possible measures.
Charlmers stated, "We have witnessed explosive growth in the use of electronic cigarettes, which is incredible to me, not only as a treasurer, but also as a parent and an Australian.
He believes that anyone driving past a bus stop would see young people using e-cigarettes. He also added that "this is not just a budget issue, but a social issue.
Charlmes stated, "These are unbelievable trends, and I am very concerned about the explosive growth of e-cigarettes that we have seen recently.
He stated that the Australian Department of Health is taking action, saying "My colleague Mark Butler, the Australian Minister for Health, is working with his counterparts and health experts to see what can be done, particularly in preventing the use of e-cigarettes among teenagers.
Politicians call for "opening up" of electronic cigarettes.
Chalmers believes the current situation is unacceptable and hinted at taking "stricter" action against e-cigarettes. "This means that all options and what should be on the table, not just a $ 5 billion (about RMB 2.3 billion) issue, this (budget) will be delivered to Parliament in four weeks," he said.
David Littleproud, leader of the Australian National Party, has admitted that the government has "failed" in preventing children from smoking. He is calling for electronic cigarettes to be more readily available in convenience stores.
He told the media, "I have to say that the government's policies have failed.
According to current laws, Australians need a prescription from a doctor in order to legally purchase e-cigarettes containing nicotine.
Despite being rejected by several health experts, Littlproud continues to advocate for this policy.
He stated:
We must protect children, and we must do so quickly. Let us examine successful regulatory models and have the courage to admit when we have made mistakes.
Related reading:
Australia may implement a complete ban on importing electronic cigarettes.
Australian anti-smoking experts are calling for a ban on the commercial sale of e-cigarettes in the country.
Australian teenagers urge government to help them quit smoking addiction.
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Treasurer Jim Chalmers strongly criticizes the rapid rise of vaping.
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