Mr. Speaker, Canada has had an enviable record in smoking cessation and in its smoking cessation policy. This government is committed to public education. We realize that public support is essential in a civil society if we are to make progress toward our goal of a smoke free society.
Specific to the member's point in question regarding the 1994 tobacco tax reduction, it is important to remember that at that time, as the Prime Minister explained on February 8, 1994, we were dealing with an enormous problem of law enforcement and organized crime.
The problem had become a deep rooted and far reaching national issue of smuggling of contraband tobacco. Action was necessary. The four point national action plan on smuggling was an enforcement crackdown, a reduction in consumer taxes on tobacco; a special surtax on tobacco manufacturer profits and, most significantly, the tobacco demand reduction strategy which was the most ambitious tobacco control initiative in Canada's history. It was designed to counter the impact of the tax reductions.
Further, the reduction in Canadian tobacco taxes was clearly stated as a temporary measure. Because of the government's actions since that time in the area of anti-smuggling efforts, the contraband situation has improved.
The Minister of Finance in collaboration with the provinces has introduced three tax increases in provinces where taxes were cut in 1994. In addition, the 40% surtax on the profits of tobacco manufacturers was instituted in 1994 and will remain in place until March 2000.
These tax measures are consistent with the government's desire to increase taxes in a gradual manner to meet our health objectives without creating renewed contraband activity.
Yes, public education, particularly to our young, is important. Pricing is important. Advertising policy is also important. As the member opposite knows, we are moving toward an absolute ban on advertising tobacco products.