Source: AAP (Australian Associated Press) (au)
Date: 2010-06-01

The government says more people are trying to stop smoking since
steep rises in tobacco prices.

Health Minister Nicola Roxon said Quitline services around
Australia had experienced more calls after a 25 per cent tax rise
on tobacco came into effect on April 30.

Legislation to formalise the tax and excise increases passed the
lower house on Tuesday night.

The opposition supported the increases and Ms Roxon said she
hoped they would be passed quickly by the Senate.

Mr Roxon said the government had just promised a $5 million grant
to Quitline to help the anti-smoking service cope with growing
demand.