Pieter Loots, manager of “Tabakshoekje” in Baarle-Hertog, is relieved to be able to reopen his doors. “There was unfair competition and cigarettes are also essential for smokers,” he says in “Start je dag” on Radio 2 Antwerp.
Loots was proved right by the governor. “I think the governor has made a very correct assessment of the problem,” said Loots. “There was unfair competition and 20 percent of our population smokes. Tobacco products are an essential product for them.”
Antwerp governor Cathy Berx confirms this and believes that it is not up to the government to ban an unhealthy habit. “It would amount to a deflection of power if the government were to use this to prescribe a healthy lifestyle on issues unrelated to the pandemic.”
“Banning tobacco now is detrimental to the psychological well-being of smokers,” she added.
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