Without menthol cigarettes. Part 5

December 16, 2013

The result of public debates and behind-the-scenes struggle became compromise decision. Cigarettes with menthol will be prohibited after all, however after quite long period of time. Instead of 2017 ban will come into force five years later.

Decisions taken by European Parliament haven't taken gained strength of law as of yet. Ahead is next round of coordination on level of EU Council - after what deputies will take final decision basing on which during 18 months should be introduced amendments in national legislation.

John Dalli and anti-tobacco activists show on risk that tobacco Companies may during coordination obtain "exclusion" for menthol. Anyway, ex- German chancellor Helmut Kohl - ardent admirer of cigarettes with menthol may, at least for several years stop warring. In waiting seeming inevitable close ban he, according to some testimonies, has bought "as a reserve" not less than 200 cartons - what would be enough for three years. Considering that ban was delayed till 2022 and Schmidt is 94 years old, ex-chancellor, maybe will not have to live in the world where he will be deprived of possibility to smoke cigarette with favorite flavor.