Brussels, 08/09/2003 (Agence Europe) - As per article 5 of the 2001 directive on tobacco products, the European Commission decided on Monday to allow Member States, if they so wish, to replace health warnings with an illustration or photograph as of 1 October 2004. The Commission also launched a call for tenders with a view to setting up a central library, at Community level, of colour photographs and other graphic illustrations Member States can choose from. Member States will not be obliged to use these images, but they will be unable to oppose the distribution of products carrying such illustrations on their territory. It is worth noting that as of 30 September, health warnings must cover at least 30% of the front and 40% of the rear of cigarette packets. Hard-hitting photographs, showing infected lungs, for instance, are already in use in Canada and Brazil.