We keep being reminded of the revenue the state is losing from the absence of alcohol and tobacco trading, but we are not told that the government carries ten times the cost of the consequences of alcohol and tobacco consumption, writes Modidima Mannya
Alcohol and tobacco are an entrapment of the poor and vulnerable in particular, who are the biggest consumers, writes Modidima Mannya
Those questioning government’s motives for restrictions on the sale of tobacco and alcohol have challenged it.READ: The suggestion now is that the act must either not be used or be used to keep citizens in their homes, restrict movement and provide much-needed interventions, but must not interfere with the sale of alcohol and tobacco products.
We keep being reminded of the revenue the state is losing from the absence of alcohol and tobacco trading, as if that supposed revenue meant anything in the bigger scheme of things. We are not told that the government carries ten times the cost of the consequences of alcohol and tobacco consumptionCasualty sections of hospitals have been the epicentre of activity arising from alcohol consumption.Tobacco is another major contributor to poor health.
Those who make a profit do not need to agree with the rationale; they are not in law required to do so.
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