EU Declares War on Smokers

[Vocalek]

Remember that classic movie scene where Sharon Stone's character is in a police station being questioned as a murder suspect, and she lights a cigarette? They tell her "You can't smoke in here." She smiles and says, "What are you going to do, arrest me?"

A glimpse of the future:

Smoking police ashtray ban trials - EU attacks smokers with new recommendations - News - Bild.de

With e-cigarette users being lumped in with tobacco smokers, can the e-cig police force be far behind?

 

[Riplea]

Have they lost their minds? Do they recall prohibition in the 1920's, it didn't work, it just went underground. If I lived over there and they were spending my tax dollars on Cigarette Police, I would be up in arms.

 

[tarheeldan]

Am I reading correctly that this move leaves only private residence as areas in which EU member citizens would be able to smoke (once member nations comply)?

 

[maureengill]

Why even let people sell them then?

 

[(So) Jersey Girl]

What do they mean by "...rigorous and speedy measures, attracting the widest possible public attention." Public beheadings a la the Taliban and Al-Quada?

 

[solaar]

Just to get something straight up front. 'Bild' is a German tabloid that lives off of sensationalist journalism and is known for feeding into public paranoia and fearmongering. BTW I've been living in Germany long enough to know 'Bild' and their questionable tactics. Anyway their articles are always best served with a grain of salt.

I actually doubt the EU will get this passed with all the (allegedly) stipulated clauses in all member states any time soon. Our Brussel sprouts can't force any EU member state to adopt the 'directives' as a definite law.

Plus, fortunately there are still enough non-smokers in the EU who would find the measures the way they are described in the article ridiculous and over the top. My country isn't full EU member yet but I'm sure once we are we'll not be that paranoid. At least there will always be regional differences due to different cultures.

Then again, they can pass any law they want as long as anyone who puts a stick in their mouth that releases something that is or looks like smoke will not get stigmatised and ostracised in a way as practised in some countries already for a long time.

 

[solaar]

sorry, double post

 

[deewal]

Actually at the moment The EU is at War with itself. France and Germany are at each other's throat's again and the British press is full of glee about how right Britain was not to adopt the Euro as Currency and Greece is very likely to go bankrupt. They and Spain don't have an outright Smoking Ban in Public places. They let the owner of the Establishment make their own choice. Also there is still the pressing matter of how long and what shape a Banana should be.

 

[chrishawkins]

Thank you for your information....I had used e cigarette last three months. Althrought e cigarette can't compare real cigarette. But it also have big vapors, and tobacco flavors. At that time, It maybe a good choice