Outbreak Of Commonsense

... at the BBC:

OK, let's be clear, nobody is suggesting we all start smoking and drinking more - or at all - for the good of the country.

But those who do partake should note that because they are typically reluctant to give cigarettes and alcohol up, they do provide a very good source of income for the Treasury.

Alcohol contributes some £14.6bn to UK tax revenues, and smoking around £10bn.

Simon Clark, director of campaign group Forest, which defends the rights of smokers, says with tongue slightly in cheek: "During the recession you can indulge in one or two so-called vices like smoking and drinking in certain knowledge you will be raising money for the public purse and enjoying yourself at the same time."

Some go further, suggesting smokers do the country a favour by dying early and not drawing a pension - helping ease the demographic timebomb of an increasingly ageing population.

Others, however, point out that the cost of treating smoking and alcohol-related diseases amounts to billions of pounds. Mr Clark claims the money the Treasury raises from smokers far outweighs the potential cost to the NHS.

Mr Clark of FOREST is of course spot on correct, and the use of the word 'claims' is rather duplicitous, but hey.