French Health Minister Urges Prime Minister to Stop Vaping in Parliament

 France’s health minister has suggested that Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne stop using e-cigarettes in the National Assembly, sparking controversy.

According to a report by French media outlet Leparisien, French Health Minister Aurélien Rousseau commented on Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne’s frequent use of e-cigarettes in the National Assembly. He advised Borne to stop the habit, while also expressing understanding of her transition from smoking to e-cigarettes.

Over the past week, lawmaker Caroline Fiat had condemned Borne for using an e-cigarette while presenting a new bill.

 “Here, we make the law; we are not above it. When I am speaking to you (Borne), your vaping in this chamber shows complete contempt,” she said.

 Borne’s frequent use of e-cigarettes in parliament and at various public events has drawn criticism from opposition lawmakers.

But the health minister tried to defend Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne.

Aurélien Rousseau said: “I hope she will stop vaping, but I also understand that this is a rather unpleasant moment.”

In addition, he believes that under National Assembly rules, vaping in parliament is not permitted. Rousseau also said that the prime minister uses e-cigarettes to quit smoking.

He added: "What I want to do is make sure, especially for young people, that those offering them colorful packaging, flavorings, and the like do not encourage them to start smoking."