Australian Officials Criticize Private Evidence from Tobacco Company in Parliamentary Inquiry

for Customs Julian

Hill stated he was astounded that tobacco company Philip Morris International was permitted to give evidence in private during a federal parliamentary inquiry into illicit tobacco. The inquiry, led by Liberal members, closed to the public for about 45 minutes yesterday without prior explanation.

Upon reopening, committee members were informed that Philip Morris representatives had provided evidence, which will be published later with their names redacted. Hill said the decision contradicts guidelines from the World Health Organization's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which Australia joined under former Prime Minister John Howard.

The convention requires interactions with tobacco companies to be transparent and limited to necessary instances, Hill added. He emphasized that such dealings should occur publicly and at arm's length where possible.

The Albanese government is set to introduce reforms targeting housing affordability in next week's federal budget, including curbs on negative gearing, an overhaul of the capital gains tax discount, and new rules for trusts. Government sources confirmed these measures will form a central part of the budget, aimed at addressing intergenerational fairness and supporting young voters.

Labor had previously ruled out changes to capital gains tax discounts and negative gearing before the last election, but details will be finalized closer to the release. Health Minister Mark Butler, speaking on Channel Nine, advised against relying on budget speculation and urged waiting for the official announcement next Tuesday.