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13 August 2002

 

Smoke Free World Summit

 

Smoking will not be permitted during the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) despite reports to the contrary circulating in the media.

 

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed to the National Council Against Smoking (NCAS) that the United Nations agreed in writing in 1997 that all UN meetings would be smoke free. The WSSD premises will be smoke free. The undertaking was also recorded in an early ECOSOC* report.

 

"It is preposterous to suggest that a Summit dedicated to reducing environmental pollution and promoting health would override laws designed to promote these very objectives," said Peter Ucko, Director of NCAS.

 

There should be no doubt that United Nations will respect the tobacco control laws of the host country and that the Summit will be smoke free. As a result, South Africans, visitors, delegates, and Heads of State will enjoy a tobacco free healthier environment.

 

*UN Economic and Social Council