Brussels, 30/05/2002 (Agence Europe) - European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Protection David Byrne presented the campaign called "Feel Free to Say No", which is aimed at preventing smoking among young people. May 31, the day chosen for launching the European Commission's campaign, coincides with the kick-off to the World Cup and the World No-Smoking Day". On the strength of the fact that tobacco addiction is beginning at an ever younger age, and that the proportion of young smokers is increasing (see EUROPE of 23 May, p.15), the European Commission seeks to heighten the awareness of adolescents to the adverse effects of tobacco. A television spot including well-known football players all saying "no" to cigarettes will be aired throughout the EU during the World Cup. The message given by these models, with whom young people identify themselves, is to promote a tobacco-free life, without dependency, rather than a ban or a warning. Heightened awareness is also to be promoted through demonstrations and public relations operations as well as a website (http://www.feel-free.info ). In all Member States, several television channels that are particular favourites among young people will retransmit these advertising spots, said Mr Byrne. Some have provided free antenna time for the campaign which mainly targets 36.2 million young Europeans aged 12 to 18. The campaign budget is EUR 18 million over three years, Mr Byrne pointed out.