Scotland moves against ‘period poverty’

EDINBURGH: Scotland has made sanitary products free to all who need them, becoming the first nation in the world to take such a step against ‘‘period poverty’’.

The measure makes tampons and sanitary pads available at designated public places such as community centres, youth clubs and pharmacies, at an estimated annual cost to taxpayers of £24 million ($NZ46 million).

The Period Products (Free Provision) Scotland Bill passed unanimously, and

First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon called it ‘‘an important policy for women and girls’’.

‘‘Proud to vote for this groundbreaking legislation, making Scotland the first country in the world to provide free period products for all who need them,’’ Sturgeon said on Twitter.

Scottish Labour MP Monica Lennon said, ‘‘Scotland will not be the last country to consign period poverty to history but we have the chance to be the first.’’ — AAP