William Atkins
Friday, 29 August 2008 20:42
Science -
Health
Page 2 of 3
The lawsuit alleged their claims (as posted publically and on their Internet sites) was false and misleading to the public when these tanning organizations stated that tanning was “safe” and a “natural protection mechanism.”
In particular, documents presented to the judge shows that Body Bronze told the public that suntans protect against ultraviolet (UV) light and Tropical Sun told the public that tanning does not damage the skin and protects against sunburn. [ABC Radio Australia: “
Australian solarium companies, association guilty of misinformation”]
Finkelstein’s ruling is backed by the government’s
Trade Practices Act of 1974, which does not allow corporations to engage in conduct that is misleading or deceptive, or likely to mislead and deceive. It gives individuals and the government the right to take actions against such conduct, with prosecution carried out by the state.
Judge Finkelstein also warned officials with Body Bronze and Tropical Sun that if they did not abide by his rulings they would face contempt of court proceedings, which could include incarceration.
According to ABC Radio Australia,
“The parties admitted the information was untrue, misleading and deceptive.”
Page three states the health warnings required to be posted by the tanning industry.
