The European Commission on 1 February 2006 sued Germany and Luxembourg over the failure by both countries to adopt restrictions on tobacco advertisements and sponsorships.

 The Commission first warned both countries in October. The present legal action gives them two months to comply or face a full case at the European Court of Justice. The Court could then impose fines.
Under an EU law passed in 2003, all tobacco advertising in print, on the radio or via the Internet is forbidden. The law also prohibits tobacco sponsorships of cross-border events. Both Germany and Luxembourg haven't incorporated the ban into their national law."The Commission must ensure that EU law is upheld," said European Health and Consumer Protection Commissioner Markos Kyprianou. "I am determined to enforce this piece of legislation, which is essential in the fight against smoking." (pi)