5 Sue Japanese Premier Over Smoking Habit
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TOKYO — Japanese Prime Minister Ryutaro Hashimoto, an admitted heavy smoker, was sued Friday by five anti-smokers who said his habit violated the country’s constitution guaranteeing a wholesome life.
The lawsuit quoted the premier as saying, “Taxes on cigarettes are big revenue sources for the central and local governments. I will smoke as much as possible, while watching my health, and avoid imposing a burden on the medical insurance system budget.”
The five said the remark violated an article of the constitution, and that as premier, he was obliged to uphold the constitution.
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