The National Council, today, decided that supply and distribution of tobacco products in the Country will be permitted. The manufacturing of tobacco, however, will remain banned as stated in the Tobacco Control Act.
The submission was made by the National Council’s legislative committee.
The committee said the amendment was necessary because the Tobacco Control Act, which was being amended, had led to the growth of black market in the Country.
Majority of the members supported the proposal. They, however, said the sellers should be taxed.
There were also reservations made by some of the members.
The House then resolved to decide on the matter through show of hands. Eighteen of the 25 members supported the proposal. The Chairperson informed that Tobacco Control Amendment Bill will be tabled in the National Assembly in the summer session.
