PART 2
Describe a good law in your country.
You should say:
– What is the law?
– How did you learn about it?
– Whom does this law affect?
Why is this a good law and what would be the consequence of not having it?
You will have one to two minutes to talk about this topic.
You will have one minute to prepare what you are going to say.

A truly beneficial law which was introduced back in 2010 in Hungary is a ban on smoking tobacco in public places, such as bars and restaurants. Prior to this law people were constantly smoking indoors before, during and after their meals and drinks, creating clouds of second-hand smoke and not only discomforting non-smokers but also causing an increase in respiratory diseases, namely lung cancer. This had led to a decline in revenue for many hospitality venues, as well as put strain on the healthcare system. It was therefore almost inevitable that the government and society mitegate this harmful behavior by banning the consumption of tobacco in public areas for the interest of the majority. Through a massive campaign effort, a tonne of advertising, and strict regulation, in the form of fines, between 2010 and now, the Hungarian government has successfully put an end to people lighting up in public spaces, especially indoor venues. Law officials were not only fining those who smoke 50 dollars for breaking this law, but even more importantly, the venue owners who ignored this law are fined 5000 dollars. As a result, the air is now fresh when families go out to enjoy a diner at a restaurant, they no longer need to worry about their children breathing in second-hand smoke or being negatively influenced by seeing smokers, and restaurant owners are experiencing and increase in revenue. Had this law not been introduced a decade ago, there would likely be even more problems with people’s health and eventually the healthcare infrastructure may become unsustainable. This could lead to dire results for the functioning of society. People could be left without treatment and the economy could even collapse.    

Q: Has this law impacted you in any positive or negative way?

A: This law has been exceptionally beneficial in my life, because it has helped me to quit smoking, and now, I feel much healthier, and I actually enjoy getting into more in-depth conversations with my friends and family when we’re out on the town for a meal, rather than paying attention to my cigarette. Just last week I had a nice meal on a patio with some friends and it was great to breath fresh air. 

Q: How has this affected smokers in your country and what is their opinion about it?

Initially, many smokers were furious when this law was implemented, as they are addicted and this creates much tension when they cannot smoke, epseically when drinking alcohol. But, as time passed, most smokers came to both agree and like this legislation, as it has helped them to decrease their use of tobacco, or even quit, like myself, and public spaces have become cleaner and more enjoyable. 

To become furious = to be up in arms – Most smokers were up in arms when this law first came into effect. 

PART 3

Let’s talk about policing.

What are the most important responsibilities of police officers? 

Hmm, that is an interesting question because law enforcement officials have many responsibilities; however, if I had to choose just a couple, I would say that their prime directives are to serve and protects, just as it is written on the side of police cruisers in the US and Canada. By this I mean that they are public servants first, and they need to make sure that citizens are kept safe and respected. Also, they must protect citizens from harm, such as second hand smoke in public places. 

If police are unable to perform these duties, what are the consequences?

Given that cops are unable to perform as they should, society will suffer because enforcing laws helps to maintain stability and quality of life. If this is not so, then anarchy can ensue and crime rates can spiral out of control, people will start to fear for their safety and revolt against government. There has been precedence of this in the past with certain societies. 

Which types of training are important for police officers to receive? 

That’s an interesting question, I’m sure there is a tonne of training that officers need and get, let me think of some. Well, they certainly need both physical and mental training, such as weight lifting, running and psychological, stress management as their jobs are demanding for they bodies and minds. In a gun fight, the officers have to stay focused and be agile and strong. 

Which of these is the most important and why?

Hmm, in my opinion, if I had to say, I would choose psychological training because as the saying goes, brains over brawns. In a given situation using their critical thinking would be the greatest advantage to hopefully solve conflicts in a peaceful manner with hurting criminals or the public. 

Is being an officer of the law more dangerous today than in the past? Why or why not, elaborate?

Let’s talk about laws and regulations.

Which are the most basic laws that govern most people around the world? Why are these laws important?

What are the best ways for governments to make sure that people follow the laws of their country? What are negative ways to enforce laws?

Have there been any new laws introduced over the past 20 years that did not exist before? What activity warranted the creation of these laws?