Smoking ban in cars when driving with children for UAE

The Federal Cabinet has given its approval for a number of new initiatives, ranging from education to public health.

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ABU DHABI // Legislation that bans tobacco advertising and promotion and makes it illegal to smoke in a vehicle when a child under 12 is present was yesterday approved by the Federal Cabinet.
New measures on public health and education were approved during a meeting chaired by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai.
The aim of the legislation is to reduce the harmful effects of smoking on the community. The regulations also cover smoking in cafes.
The Cabinet also approved a national education qualification system to cover up to PhD level.
The aim of the system is to make it easier for students and trainees to change areas of study using a credit system that is recognised locally and abroad. It is hoped such a system would leave graduates better-placed to enter international careers, as well as making the best use of teaching resources.
Also approved by the Cabinet was a Dh250 million computer network that will connect all federal government bodies and provide them with high-speed, secure services. A centre staffed by Emiratis will be set up for the network.
A bio-security strategy was also approved, with the Cabinet indicating such a strategy was vital to tackling potential biological hazards and epidemics.
A new court in Dhaid, Sharjah, was also given approval, as was a draft law regulating private healthcare facilities.
Sheikh Mohammed was quoted by Wam as saying: "Khalifa our leader is mobilising concerted efforts, rallying energies, supporting initiatives and building the nation. We have placed our confidence in UAE citizens and today we are reaping the fruits of excellence in many fields."
Several agreements aimed at boosting trade were also passed.
The announcements came as the UAE was ranked first for government efficiency in 2013 by the International Institute of Management Development in Switzerland. The UAE also had the largest jump in the global competitiveness ranking - rising to eighth.
 
ksinclair@thenational.ae