Mr. Speaker, last spring the government acknowledged the concerns of the organizers of the Grand Prix of Canada in Montreal and the Molson Indy in Toronto and Vancouver. These concerns were about the potential impact of the Tobacco Act's restrictions on the promotion of motor sport events that receive support from tobacco companies.
The former health minister committed to finalizing before the end of 1997 consultations with motor sports promoters and to present amendments that will respect the international standards concerning the use of logos on cars, drivers, pit crews and transport equipment. The former minister also stated that this could be done in a manner consistent with the charter and our health objectives.
The Tobacco Act gives the government authority to regulate the production, promotion, labelling and sale of tobacco products and the access by minors to tobacco products. The act is part of the federal government's broad strategy to reduce the use of tobacco in Canada. This strategy includes legislation, research, public education and tax policy.
The government took the direction of the supreme court with respect to the freedom of expression that must be accorded the tobacco industry to communicate with adult consumers. The government also listened to the concerns of arts and sports groups and we incorporated a transition period to allow these groups to find alternative sponsors.
The Minister of Health has been involved in consultations with affected parties on both sides of the issue. An amendment will be prepared that will meet the commitment made last spring.
There are three criteria any amendment to the act must be weighed against: international standards, the charter of rights and freedoms, and our health objectives. The charter and our health objectives are fundamental considerations and the issue of international standards is also important. We must ensure that any change to the act reflects these considerations and we will see that this is done.