NSC pushes for quicker ban on cigarette sales outside tobacconists; Coalition furious

A proposal by the NSC and several opposition parties to ban tobacco sales earlier for all shops except tobacconists has led to harsh criticism of the government party by its coalition partners. The VVD, in particular, is furious. Parliamentarian Judith Thielen believes that the position of NSC member Daniëlle Jansen is “a very clear signal that reliable government and good governance are not in good hands with the Nieuw Sociaal Contract.”

In the debate on tobacco sales points, Jansen proposed to bring forward the year in which tobacco sales will only be permitted in specialist shops. The Cabinet has indicated that it can be done earlier. Jansen called it a “logical step” to ensure that nicotine products may only be sold by specialist shops from 2028. To this end, she submitted a proposal with GroenLinks-PvdA, CDA, and ChristenUnie.

That caused great indignation from Jansen’s coalition partners, who attacked her in the debate. PVV parliamentarian Patrick Crijns pointed to the European Union’s Charter of Fundamental Rights. It stipulates the freedom of entrepreneurship “in accordance with Union law and national legislation and practices.” Crijns: “NSC stands for good governance and holds the constitution in high regard. What happened?”

According to VVD MP Thielen, the NSC is breaking agreements made with entrepreneurs. BBB parliamentarian Henk Vermeer also has nothing good to say about Jansen’s proposal. He called her “incredibly naive” and pointed out the possibility of buying cigarettes across the border.

For Jansen, other interests weigh more heavily, she told her coalition partners. “The health of our youth comes first.” NSC is not keen on sticking to the date “at all costs” when “you see that more young people are starting to smoke.” She called it her “mission” to convince the other parties.

The opposition also noticed that the coalition parties were again diametrically opposed to each other. SP parliamentarian Sharah Dobbe wondered whether the NSC still finds it pleasant in the coalition. CDA parliamentarian Harmen Krul compared Jansen to “Tom Thumb,” who stands alone against the other parties.